The Manager for Communication and Marketing at SPU, Ms Mosima Mehlape, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Marketing, Advancement and Communication in Education (MACE). MACE is the national professional body for marketing, advancement and communication in public universities, private higher education institutions and TVET colleges, and its Board plays a central role in shaping sector wide strategy and professional excellence.
This appointment positions SPU within the national governance structure that guides how institutions build reputation, strengthen visibility and articulate their identity in an increasingly competitive academic environment. It also marks the first time in SPU’s history that a staff member has been selected to serve on the MACE Board which is a distinction that reflects the growing recognition of SPU’s professional voice within the sector.
Ms Mehlape’s contribution at SPU has been rooted in strategic storytelling, brand stewardship and a commitment to aligning the University’s heritage and purpose with a national presence that continues to grow. Her work has supported the strengthening of SPU’s institutional identity and contributed to its recognition among South Africa’s Top Ten Coolest Universities at the 2023 GenNXT Awards. Ms Mehlape’s approach emphasises creative strategy, the use of data to inform decision-making, and communication that connects people to the purpose and promise of the institution.
Ms Mehlape’s submission to MACE was lauded for its clarity of vision for marketing and communication, and also for the broader advancement of the profession. She articulated the need for a unified and elevated sector voice, one that positions MACE on par with leading industry platforms. Her perspective emphasised that the work of MACE professionals carries strategic weight, contributes to institutional growth and credibility, and deserves recognition that reflects its impact. This integrated view of marketing, advancement and communication set her apart among an overwhelming number of nominations from institutions across the country.
Her appointment now brings her perspective to the national arena and provides SPU with access to a network that advances sector wide collaboration, professional excellence and shared learning. It also provides a platform through which the University’s own journey of institutional distinction can be strengthened through new engagements, benchmarking and collective leadership.
Reflecting on the appointment, Ms Mehlape commented on the honour of serving alongside professionals whose work has shaped the national landscape of MACE in higher education. With over 13 years of experience in the field, she intends to contribute actively while engaging deeply with national peers whose expertise spans the full MACE environment. She affirms her commitment to applying these insights to further strengthen SPU’s institutional presence and to support the University’s direction under the leadership of the incoming Vice Chancellor Professor Meyer and her executive team. Ms Mehlape is determined to use everything she gains from this platform to advance Sol Plaatje University with purpose, clarity and conviction, ensuring that her contribution reflects both the responsibilities of her role and the University’s strategic direction.
