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18 October 2024 | Story Precious Shamase | Photo Supplied
Lebakeng Mokhele
Lebakeng Mokhele

The University of the Free State (UFS) celebrates Lebakeng Mokhele, a remarkable student nominated for the prestigious Allan Gray Student Achievers programme. This recognition highlights Mokhele’s exceptional academic journey, fuelled by dedication and a commitment to making a difference.

Mokhele is a beneficiary of the Centre for Global Change, exemplifying the positive impact of the centre.

Triumph over adversity

Despite facing significant challenges during his first year, Mokhele persevered and achieved remarkable success. Starting his academic journey on foot and enduring seven months without electricity, he demonstrated exceptional discipline and dedication to his studies.

Using a candle for light, Mokhele diligently pursued his academic goals, ultimately earning the prestigious title of Best First-Year in the Department of Computer Science and Informatics. His achievement was even more impressive considering the obstacles he overcame. Mokhele's story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of maintaining focus in the face of adversity.

Mokhele’s story is one of perseverance.  Growing up, he wanted to become a medical doctor.  He credits his mother as his unwavering pillar of support. Additionally, he acknowledges Dr Amon Magwiro and Annemarie van Noordwyk for their guidance and mentorship.

A Well-Rounded Achiever

Currently pursuing an Honours in Business Management, Mokhele has a list of impressive accomplishments:

  • Top achiever awards across various departments
  • Best academic performer among all students in 2019
  • Golden Key International Honour Society member
  • Best performer in the Department of Business Management in 2020

Ambitious Goals and Aspiring Vision

He aspires to earn a PhD in Business Management while simultaneously establishing a thriving mixed farming enterprise. The Allan Gray programme offers him an opportunity to network and gain exposure to the financial industry – a developing passion sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Leadership and Community Focus

His dedication extends beyond academics. He is actively involved in extracurricular activities, including organising community soccer tournaments.  He demonstrates strong leadership through his roles as:

  • President of Enactus UFS
  • Treasurer of Youth in Agriculture and Rural Development in Maluti-a-Phofung
  • His farming venture currently employs workers and plans for expansion are underway. Through his ‘bucks n bucks’ consultancy, he assists aspiring entrepreneurs.

Sharing his Wisdom

Mokhele emphasises the importance of applying knowledge and seeking information. He encourages fellow students:

  • Focus on discipline: It is the key to overcoming challenges.
  • Find your ‘why’: Drive yourself with a clear purpose.
  • Never give up: Success is possible even when facing setbacks.

Gratitude and Acknowledgement

Lebakeng expresses his deepest gratitude to his family, lecturers, the Centre for Global Change (including Prof Otomo and his team), and everyone who have supported him.

A Final Note

For those interested in learning more about Mokhele’s business venture, visit his website: www.bucksnbucks.co.za

News Archive

First Kovsie. First Free Stater. First Female. Prof Driekie Hay makes history.
2014-06-10

 
Prof Driekie Hay, Vice-Rector: Open and Lifelong Innovative Higher Education, was elected to the Board of the Afrikaanse Taal- en Kultuurvereniging (ATKV). It is the first time in the history of the ATKV that someone from our university – as well as from the Free State – has been elected to the Board.

To date, only a few women have been nominated.

“I see this election as recognition of the UFS’s vision to act as a national role player and make a difference through its Human Project and its pursuit of social justice and reconciliation,” says Prof Hay.

She was appointed in the cultural expert portfolio during the ATKV’s Annual General Meeting from 28 to 29 May 2014. In this position Prof Hay has to promote the Afrikaans language and culture on a national level – through an inclusive approach. Prof Hay’s goal is to build bridges between the different language and cultural groups. She would like to establish greater understanding between the various groups in our country. She feels it is important to give shape to “a new generation of South Africans that are no longer threatened by ‘otherness’, but will cherish the treasure of diversity.”

This appointment isn’t only a great honour, but also endorses Prof Hay’s expertise. “On a personal and professional level, this appointment means that they have confidence in my expertise, outlook on life and experience” she says.

Prof Hay will serve on the Board of the ATKV for a three-year term.

The ATKV is a cultural organisation with four main focus areas:

  • language,
  • the arts,
  • communities and
  • education.

 


Economic and Management Sciences

Education

Health Sciences

The Humanities

Law

Natural and Agricultural Sciences

Theology and Religion

Open Distance Learning

Business School

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