Honorary doctorates
PITSO MOSIMANE: CONQUERING ACADEMIA, LEAVING A LEGACY, AND FOSTERING DEVELOPMENT
“MY JOURNEY THROUGH EDUCATION AND SPORTS HAS BEEN UNEXPECTED YET FULFILLING,” MOSIMANE REFLECTS. “I INITIALLY ENTERED RAU WITH A FOCUS ON SPORTS MANAGEMENT, NEVER IMAGINING FOOTBALL WOULD LEAD ME TO
Pitso Mosimane, a towering figure in South African football, recently achieved a milestone that reflects his dedication to both sport and education: receiving an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Johannesburg (UJ), an institution where he once pursued Sports Management during its earlier incarnation as Rand Afrikaans University (RAU). This accolade not only honours his illustrious career but also underscores his commitment to advancing knowledge in sports beyond the field. “My journey through education and sports has been unexpected yet fulfilling,” Mosimane reflects. “I initially entered RAU with a focus on sports management, never imagining football would lead me to this point. It’s a testament to pursuing excellence in everything you do.” Inspired by fellow sports icon Rassie Erasmus, who received a similar honour from the North-West University, Mosimane acknowledges the importance of blending academic rigour with practical expertise in football management. “Understanding sports science, anatomy, and physiology is crucial,” he emphasises. “In our competitive landscape, theoretical knowledge complements on-field experience.” Building a Lasting Legacy Beyond personal achievements, Mosimane’s passion lies in leaving a profound impact through the Pitso Mosimane Soccer Schools Programme. This initiative, rooted in his belief that football can transform lives, focuses not only on winning trophies but also on nurturing young talent and empowering communities. “We’ve won many trophies, but what matters most is how we’ve touched lives,” Mosimane asserts. “I strive to leave a legacy that extends beyond my lifetime, much like the inspirations I’ve drawn from figures like Nelson Mandela.” The Pitso Mosimane Soccer Schools programme operates on a grassroots level, partnering with schools to enhance football development. Mosimane collaborates closely with educators, deploying licensed and trained coaches to schools in regions like North West, Polokwane, and Gauteng. The programme is currently present in 12 schools, and due to its mass participation element, over 10 000 learners are exposed to it. The Pitso Mosimane Football Clubs are the competitive element of the programme. These clubs are stationed in four areas in Gauteng, namely Boksburg, Midrand, Mamelodi and Roodepoort. Through trials, the Pitso Mosimane Football Clubs have formed 24 teams with over 350 players (girls and boys) ranging between the ages of 5 and 15 years old. Within the two years of operating, the Pitso Mosimane Soccer School and Pitso Mosimane Football Clubs have provided employment opportunities and currently have over
THIS POINT. IT’S A TESTAMENT TO PURSUING EXCELLENCE IN EVERYTHING YOU DO.”
Prof Letlhokwa Mpedi and Pitso Mosimane at graduation receiving his Honorary Doctorate
ALUMNI IMPUMELELO 81
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