By: Puleng Maphisa – 04 August 2023

Acting Executive Director Advancement: Ms Kediemetse Mokotsi

The Acting Executive Director of the Advancement Department, Ms Kediemetse Lucia Mokotsi, fondly known as Kedie, boasts an impressive 28-year tenure in academia. Her journey began as a secretary and gradually led her into the academic realm, where she pursued part-time studies to excel in her field of Marketing.

During her academic journey, Kedie encountered key mentors who played significant roles in shaping her career. Mrs. Martie-Louise Verreyne, her Academic Head of Department from 1995 to 1998, encouraged her to complete her master’s degree and apply for the position of Academic HoD: Marketing and Retail Business Management, which she successfully attained in 1998. Additionally, the late Prof Kotie Grovѐ, the DVC: Marketing and Student Affairs during her time at Vaal Triangle Technikon, greatly influenced her career and instilled in her a passion for community development projects.

Kedie attributes her success in life to her late strong mother who taught her the values of determination and conviction. Moreover, the motivation and mentorship provided by both Mrs. Verreyne and Prof Grovѐ enhanced her self-confidence and academic prowess, equipping her to face any life challenges with courage.

Throughout her career, Kedie remained devoted to uplifting communities, and upon rejoining Vaal University of Technology in 2008, she spearheaded the adoption of Matwala’s Children Home by the University. This dedication to community upliftment extended further with the signing of an MoU between VUT and De Beers Group in 2012, establishing the Khula Weekend School (KWS) to offer extra classes on Saturdays for Gr10-12 learners in Mathematics, Physical Science, English, Economics, and Business Economics.

In 2017, Kedie facilitated another MoU between VUT and Liquid Telecom South Africa to support the “Champion a Student Campaign,” raising bursaries for financially needy and academically deserving students. The campaign garnered significant funding over the years, thanks to the support of various organizations and individual sponsors.