By Jimmy Zwane
Lesego Molema, a second-year animal science student at North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus, is making headlines after being nominated for a prestigious national award in agriculture. His nomination for the South African Agricultural Awards, set to take place in Durban on 7 November 2025, marks a first for NWU — no student from the university has ever been recognised at this level before.
Balancing his academic responsibilities with leadership and community initiatives, Lesego is anything but an ordinary student. Whether he’s attending lectures, meeting with student groups, or checking on campus projects, his day-to-day activities reflect a deep commitment to service and growth — both personal and collective.
“Being nominated is a great honour, especially as the first student from my department and institution to receive this recognition,” said Lesego.
“It validates my work and confirms that my contribution to agricultural development is being noticed.”
Lesego’s journey into leadership and agricultural advocacy began early. Holding a diploma in animal science, he has consistently used his education to build platforms for student empowerment. In 2024, he founded and chaired the Animal Science Student Chapter, a pioneering initiative aimed at enriching the student experience through collaboration, skills development, and mentorship. Under his leadership, the chapter has grown into a respected force on campus.
The chapter has worked closely with NWU’s subject group Animal Science to help students access bursaries, scholarships, and real-world experience through community outreach, job shadowing, and volunteer work. These efforts earned the group the Best Social Responsibility and Awareness Award from NWU’s Student Life department.
“Our chapter aims to enhance the student experience and bridge the gap between academics and the practical world of agriculture,” Lesego explained.
“We want students to feel empowered, connected, and ready to make an impact.”
His leadership doesn’t stop there. As the fundraising and RAG officer for the Student Campus Council (SCC), Lesego also plays a key role in mobilising resources to support his fellow students on the Mahikeng Campus.
“I am passionate about contributing to the student community through fundraising initiatives that make a real difference in students’ lives,” he said.
For Lesego, the nomination is more than personal recognition — it’s an opportunity to raise the profile of NWU and highlight the potential of young leaders in agriculture.
“This recognition puts the NWU on the map and highlights our institution’s commitment to excellence and innovation. I’m proud to be part of a university that believes in its students’ potential,” he said.
Looking ahead, Lesego hopes to use the platform to inspire greater youth involvement in agriculture and encourage fellow students to pursue leadership roles that drive innovation and change.
“This recognition will enhance my impact in agricultural advancement and student leadership,” he concluded.
“I will leverage it to create a bigger impact in the NWU community and beyond, while upholding the values of our university.”
As he prepares for the awards ceremony in Durban, Lesego Molema stands as a shining example of what’s possible when education, leadership, and purpose come together — not just for personal success, but for community upliftment and national recognition.
