From the quiet streets of the Bodibe village outside Lichtenburg to the helm of a secondary school in Rustenburg, North-West University (NWU) alumnus Itumeleng Joy Molaakgosi embodies resilience, academic excellence and servant leadership.

Itumeleng was born on 19 March 1987 and raised by parents who had no formal education, and his story is rooted in determination and faith in the transformative power of education.

“My parents may not have had the opportunity to go to school, but they understood the value of education. Their support and sacrifices laid the foundation for everything I have achieved,” he reflects.

His mother was unemployed and his father worked as a driver, yet the household was rich in encouragement and discipline. He began his schooling at Mokakana Primary, continued at Bodibe Middle School, and completed his matric at Tswelelopele High School in the Itsoseng township in 2005.

Academic excellence at the NWU

In 2006, Itumeleng enrolled at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus, a decision that would shape his professional identity.

Over the years, he accumulated an impressive list of qualifications, starting with a BSc in biology and chemistry in 2009, a postgraduate certificate in education in 2010, a BSc Hons in chemistry in 2013 and a master’s degree in chemistry education in 2017. He is currently completing his PhD in chemistry education under the supervision of Prof. Helen Drummond. Although balancing demanding leadership responsibilities in schools has delayed completion, he remains determined.

“Pursuing a PhD while working full-time has not been easy, but I am hopeful that I will complete it this year. Continuous learning is part of who I am,” he says.

His postgraduate research focused on pedagogical content knowledge, specifically the Grade 10 to 12 Paper 2 in chemistry in the Ngaka Modiri Molema district.

“The data I collected gave me insight into the realities of teaching and learning Physical Sciences in our district and potentially across the province. It strengthened my resolve to improve curriculum delivery and teacher support,” says Itumeleng.

He speaks fondly of his undergraduate days.

“We spent so much time in the Science Building – those practical sessions shaped my confidence as a scientist and educator.”

Beyond academics, he proudly represented the university in basketball at the University Sports South Africa tournaments.

“Basketball taught me teamwork, discipline, resilience and qualities that I use every day as a school leader.”

From classroom teacher to school principal

Itumeleng began his teaching career in 2010 at the Bodibe Middle School, where he taught mathematics and natural sciences. When the school expanded into a full secondary school in 2013, he transitioned to teaching physical sciences.

His leadership potential soon became evident. From 2018 until October 2019, he served as departmental head of mathematics and science at the Bodibe Secondary School.

In October 2019, he was appointed deputy principal at Sol Plaatje Secondary in Mahikeng, where he oversaw curriculum management.

Then, in December 2025, he reached a significant milestone – his appointment as principal of Khayalethu Secondary in Rustenburg.

“Becoming a principal is both humbling and empowering. It is not just about managing a school, it is about shaping futures,” he says.

Leading a school with vision and accountability

As principal, his responsibilities span governance, administration and instructional leadership. He works closely with the school governing body on governance matters, oversees financial and administrative management, ensures learner safety and discipline, and manages the day-to-day professional operations of the school.

“A school principal must be a strategic thinker, a problem-solver and a servant leader. Every decision must prioritise the best interests of the learners,” he adds.

His background in chemistry education continues to influence his leadership approach.

“Having a deep understanding of pedagogy allows me to support teachers meaningfully. Curriculum management is not just about compliance, it is about quality teaching and improved learner outcomes,” he says.

The enduring impact of the NWU

The NWU has remained central to his journey as a physical sciences educator and leader.

“The NWU played a pivotal role in shaping me as an educator. It exposed me to research, critical thinking and innovation in teaching.”

He has encouraged many of his former learners to enrol at the NWU, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“The NWU offers a friendly and inclusive student life. It continues to open doors for students who might otherwise not have had access to higher education.”

For Itumeleng, being an NWU alumnus is a badge of honour.

“The university nurtures resilience and excellence. It gives students the tools to rewrite their stories,” he says.

A call to fellow alumni: Mentor the next generation

As someone who understands the challenges faced by learners from rural and disadvantaged communities, he has a clear message for fellow NWU alumni.

“Adopt a student. Mentor someone in your profession. Mentorship can bridge the gap between theory and the realities of the workplace.”

He believes mentorship can prepare students for the practical demands of their chosen careers and provide the guidance many first-generation students may lack.

“We cannot underestimate the power of guidance. Sometimes one conversation can change the direction of a young person’s life.”

From the Bodibe village to leading a secondary school in Rustenburg, Itumeleng’s journey is a powerful testament to perseverance, academic excellence and purposeful leadership. As he works toward completing his PhD, he continues to inspire learners, educators and fellow alumni alike, proving that education changes not only individuals, but entire communities.

NWU alumnus Itumeleng Joy Molaakgosi embodies resilience, academic excellence and servant leadership.