The Unisa Midlands Region successfully hosted its 3^rd Annual Golf Challenge under the inspiring theme #ShapingFutures, bringing together 86 golfers, sponsors, stakeholders, and supporters for a day on the course to raise funds for students who have finalised their degrees but cannot graduate due to outstanding study fees.  

A moving highlight of the event held on Friday, 26 June 2026, at the Magalies Park Golf Course, Hartbeespoort, was the testimony of two beneficiaries, Gadifele Monnanyana, who completed a Bachelor of Laws Degree, and Refiloe Molibeli, who completed a National Diploma in Safety Management. Both students expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors and golfers, sharing how the initiative will enable them to graduate in the October 2026 Spring Graduations. They encouraged the golfers and sponsors to continue supporting the programme for the benefit of other students.

In her address at the prize-giving ceremony, the Acting Regional Director of the Midlands Region, Mmatswele Angie Bopape, highlighted Unisa’s role as Africa’s largest comprehensive open distance e-Learning (CODeL) institution. As she reflected on Unisa’s 10 Catalytic Niche Areas and the university’s social impact, Bopape mentioned that these were recently highlighted in DHET’s accredited publication research output report. “These coincide with a significant milestone—Unisa’s 153^rd anniversary on 26 June 2026, marking over a century of opening doors to knowledge, opportunity and transformation,” she said.

She continued: “The impact of the Midlands Golf Challenge continues to grow as funds raised through previous events have already assisted 19 students in settling outstanding debts, enabling them to graduate and pursue brighter futures.”

“The Midlands Golf Challenge remains a powerful example of how collaboration between the university, business sector and community stakeholders can create lasting opportunities for students while strengthening partnerships that contribute to social impact,” said Bopape as he concluded her address.

Special appreciation was extended to the event’s sponsors: DSV, La Vita Spa, Avari Cars, FUNDI, Old Mutual, Morena Properties, Mahindra, Van Schaik Bookstore, Incredible Connection, Orange Executive Cars, Youth Business Network, SBL, Drone Divas, Unisa Health and Wellness, Flavours of Cuba, and Mothe Events.

Veteran golfer claims overall honours

The event’s best golfer, Shadrack Molefe (74), has been passionate about the game since the 1960s, when the sport was not widely played in Black communities. His journey began as a caddie, where he developed a love for the game and learned its fundamentals.

His first club membership was at Sun City Golf Club, where he later served as Club Captain. Molepe also represented Mooinooi Golf Club and Rustenburg Golf Club, competing in the challenging Scratch League.

At the age of 61, he earned provincial colours in the Inter-Provincial Super Senior League, competing in the Scratch, Better Ball, and Handicap Leagues. Known for his solid course management and competitive spirit, Molepe has enjoyed a distinguished playing career.

Today, he remains active in the game as a golf coach, helping develop the next generation of golfers. His overall victory is a fitting reward for a lifetime dedicated to the fairways and greens

* By Monica Nong, Office of the Regional Director, Unisa Midlands Region