Mmopiemang Sesing-Letsike, head of student administration in the Faculty of Law at the University of Pretoria (UP), recently graduated top of her class and earned a place on the Dean’s Merit List.

Since 2017, she has been a pivotal figure in the faculty, demonstrating an exceptional blend of dedication to her work and a commitment to self-improvement. Balancing her roles as a wife, mother and head of student administration required meticulous planning and discipline.

“I knew that in January I was taking this master’s journey and I wanted to complete it in one year,” she says. “I cleared everything else and focused on my work and studies.”

Sesing-Letsike was born in the Free State, in a small town near Bloemfontein called Dewetsdorp, where she attended primary school and moved to Bloemfontein to go to high school.

“My athletic talent led me to Gqeberha [formerly Port Elizabeth], where I pursued a National Diploma in Commercial Administration,” she says.

Her journey into athletics was inspired by her brother-in-law, and this recruitment not only granted her a bursary but also shaped her path to Port Elizabeth Technikon, now known as Nelson Mandela University.

Despite her athletic prowess, Sesing-Letsike’s true calling lay in academia, spurred on by her father’s emphasis on education. She completed a national diploma and later obtained a Bachelor of Technology and BCom (Hons) in Business Management at the University of South Africa. In 2023, she graduated top of her class with a Master of Philosophy in Strategic Communication from UP, earning a place on the Dean’s Merit List.

“We communicate with students, stakeholders and academics every day,” she says. “Strategic communication management was my best option to improve myself in my job.”

Sesing-Letsike’s motivation to pursue a master’s degree was multifaceted.

“My daughter was studying theology at UP and was struggling. While talking with a colleague from the Law Library about how to assist our children, we thought if we registered and studied with them, it might help.”

Additionally, the staff rebate at UP and the University’s prestigious reputation made it a logical choice.

“I couldn't work at UP and leave without a qualification from UP,” she declares.

Sesing-Letsike’s success was not without challenges.

“When you work in an academic environment, the perception is that professional staff members do not want to improve themselves. My inspiration is the support that the University gives to both professional and academic staff members – we are one thing. Even though our careers are different, we must improve ourselves holistically to better assist students.”

Women’s Month is significant to Sesing-Letsike.

“It means we are celebrated and recognised. Women are encouraged to do more, to spread our wings through different spheres.”

To women aspiring to excel in academia and their careers, Sesing-Letsike’s message is simple: “Just do it. If you have dreams, run after them. Don’t overthink it. The more you do, the easier it becomes.”

Her own aspirations continue as she embarks on a PhD journey, aiming to graduate alongside her daughter in three years.

Reflecting on her role and its impact, Sesing-Letsike hopes to be remembered as someone who played a crucial role in the success of students.

“During graduation, I get excited when I see students who were struggling reach the graduation stage,” she says. “Knowing I contributed to their success is deeply satisfying.”