By Teboho Moloi
QWAQWA – Former SABC North West regional news editor Dan Mongale has appealed to South African universities to confer an honorary doctorate on former SABC chief operating officer and current African Content Movement (ACM) founder and president, Hlaudi Motsoeneng, in recognition of his contribution to public broadcasting.
Mongale said Motsoeneng deserves formal academic recognition for his work at the public broadcaster, particularly when viewed against his humble upbringing, background and rise through the ranks to senior leadership.
He described Motsoeneng as a figure with a “remarkable footprint” in South African broadcasting, calling on the country to reflect on his legacy and acknowledge his achievements.
“He undoubtedly turned the SABC around. He revived staff morale, restored vibrancy and excitement within the organisation, and positively changed the lives of many people during his tenure,” Mongale said.
Mongale further argued that Motsoeneng’s personality and extensive media experience position him well to bring meaningful change in the political arena.
He said Motsoeneng’s journey from journalism to executive production sharpened his ability to engage decision-makers with deep, probing and relevant questions that directly affect ordinary people.
He described Motsoeneng as a selfless leader who consistently placed the interests of others above his own, particularly those he led, and credited him with recognising untapped talent, restoring hope where it had faded and improving the lives of cooperative employees.
According to Mongale, Motsoeneng’s decision to enter politics and return to his home area of QwaQwa reflects a desire to serve his people, drawing on the vast knowledge and experience he accumulated over the years.
“He left the SABC in a financially stronger position than the struggling, bailout-dependent institution we see today. That situation did not exist during Dr Motsoeneng’s time. Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them,” Mongale said.
Motsoeneng said he would accept an honorary doctorate should it be officially conferred on him by a recognised institution.“If that is what the people are saying and an institution formally grants it, I will humbly accept the honour,” he said.
