BY: Prudence Nhavingo
SABC Setswana newsreader Dr. Masego Ezekiel “Easy” Matjila was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Humanities by North-West University (NWU) at Mahikeng Campus on July 18th.
Dr. Matjila received the Honorary Doctorate for his outstanding achievements in developing Setswana and other languages through broadcasting. His broadcasting career began 30 years ago as a radio personality for Radio Setswana. He later worked at Motsweding FM, joined the Afrikaans Service, collaborated with Ikwekwezi FM, and worked at Ligwalagwala FM. He was also appointed as a Setswana sport presenter for SABC Sport’s Topsport.
“I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to North-West University for honoring me while I’m still alive. I am lucky and humbled by this award,” explained Dr. Ezekiel Matjila.
Before retiring in 2021, Dr. Matjila was a prime-time news presenter in Sepedi, Setswana, and Sesotho. He also served as a bulletin editor and executive producer, positions that led to his recognition in the media industry and to receiving this great achievement.
The multilingual newsreader received the Best News Writer award in 2008 and holds qualifications from several universities, including WITS University, UNISA, and Regenesys Business School. He was also honored by the Pan South African Language Board for promoting the Setswana language and heritage and continues to achieve more today.
North-West University proudly announced Dr. Masego Ezekiel “Easy” Matjila’s awarding ceremony on their Facebook page, inviting everyone to celebrate the broadcaster’s achievement.
“Today marks the start of our winter graduation ceremony, and we are proud to announce that Dr. Masego Ezekiel Matjila will be joining us to receive his Honorary Doctorate for his impact on South African society and for promoting the Sesotho, Setswana, and Sepedi languages through broadcasting,” wrote North-West University.
South Africans helped celebrate Dr. Masego Ezekiel Matjila’s achievement by sending their congratulations and warm messages, showing support and appreciation for his years of service.
“These men raised most of us who were aspiring to go into broadcasting, him and the late CC Manyaapelo,” Thabo Theophilus Simango commented on Facebook.
