News & Media
Hoisting Unisa’s flag high at AfLIA’s Academic Libraries Section
The Library and Information Services (LIS) at Unisa proudly announces a significant milestone: the recent election of Mokgadi Senyolo as Chairperson of the Academic Libraries & Library Consortia Section of the African Library and Information Associations and Institutions (AfLIA).
Mokgadi Senyolo
This achievement not only recognises Senyolo’s leadership, but also marks Unisa LIS’s renewed presence and commitment to active participation in continental professional networks. It is a proud, full-circle moment for the institution, as AfLIA was officially launched during the 2nd African Library Summit, hosted by Unisa Library in Tshwane in July 2013.
Senyolo, a Subject Branch Librarian at Unisa and recipient of the 2024 LIASA-Sabinet Influential Library Leader Award, brings extensive experience, collaborative leadership and a passion for advancing academic libraries across Africa. Her election reflects a career dedicated to excellence, innovation and professional development within the LIS sector. In her new role, she will lead efforts to foster greater collaboration among academic libraries and consortia, with a focus on digital transformation, knowledge sharing and strategic partnerships tailored to African contexts.
Grounded in inclusivity, shared responsibility and meaningful engagement
Her appointment was made possible through the nomination and support of Unisa LIS Executive Director, Prof Mpho Ngoepe, a strong advocate for increased South African representation in AfLIA. His nomination of Senyolo demonstrates confidence in her capabilities and reflects a strategic commitment to enhancing Unisa's visibility and leadership on the continent. His continued mentorship highlights the importance of cultivating future leaders within the profession.
Senyolo is now focused on forming an inclusive and dynamic committee to support the work of the section. She has called on academic library professionals across Africa to join her in shaping a more collaborative and connected academic library landscape. Her leadership approach is grounded in inclusivity, shared responsibility and meaningful engagement.
AfLIA continues to play a pivotal role in supporting access to information, capacity building and professional collaboration across the continent. As Chairperson of the Academic Libraries and Library Consortia Section, Senyolo will contribute to shaping programmes and policies that strengthen higher education and ensure sustainable, equitable library services across Africa.
Unisa LIS client services team, back, from left:: Mokgadi Senyolo, Sonto Morudu and Lindi Nhlapo.
Front, from left: Kwanang Shokane, Prof Mpho Ngoepe, Dr Kgomotso Marumo and Freeman Zulu
Reflecting on her election, Senyolo shared: "This achievement reflects the strength and dedication of our team. I’m honoured to take on this responsibility and will do my best to represent our profession and institution with integrity and purpose."
Unisa LIS proudly celebrates this achievement and extends its full support to Ms Senyolo as she steps into this important leadership role. Her appointment marks a new chapter of collaboration and impact for academic libraries both within South Africa and across the African continent.
* By Itumeleng Mpete, Marketing Coordinator, Library and Information Services
Publish date: 2025-06-06 00:00:00.0
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