By OBAKENG MAJE
29 June 2025- The North West MEC for Education, Viola Motsumi said she is pleased to announce that Lengane Bogatsu, has been appointed as the new Superintendent-General (SG) following a rigorous selection process. Motsumi introduced Bogatsu to the Department’s senior management, corporate services personnel, school principals, and School Governing Bodies (SGBs), during a strategic engagement session held on 25 and 26 June 2025 at the Mmabatho Convention Centre in Mahikeng.
“Born and bred in Ganalaagte, in the Delareyville area, Bogatsu brings with him an impressive blend of vibrant leadership, grounded experience, and a visionary outlook for the future of education in the North West province.
“His deep understanding of public service and his passion for development make him a dynamic force as he takes the helm of the department at a critical time,” she said.
Motsumi further said Bogatsu holds two Master’s degrees, one in Public Management and another in Development and Management. She added that, Bogatsu also holds a Bachelor of Education Degree from the University of Natal, a Higher Diploma in Education, and a Primary Teacher’s Diploma from Phatsimang College of Education.
“With a career spanning nearly three decades across various spheres of public service, Bogatsu joins the North West Department of Education, after serving as Chief Director in the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, where he also held several acting roles including acting Chief Land Claims Commissioner.
“His roots in education run deep having served as a dedicated school principal at Kgoke Lesabe High School from 1997 to 2007. Bogatsu is also no stranger to political leadership, having been a mayor and a councillor of Ditsobotla Local Municipality from 1994 to 2000,” said Motsumi.
She expressed full confidence in Bogatsu’s capabilities, describing him as a “seasoned” leader with a servant heart and a track record of delivery. Motsumi said Bogatsu understands the pulse of the communities and the urgency of their mission.
“His professional acumen and passion for education make him the right person to lead our department into a new era of excellence. I plead with the team to grant him space to execute and excel.
“As department, we welcome him with great optimism and pledges its full support as he embarks on this important journey of educational transformation as of 1 July 2025,” she said.
Addressing team education, Bogatsu outlined his immediate focus areas for driving the department forward. He said these include accelerating school infrastructure projects, strengthening school safety, ensuring timely filling of vacant posts, revitalising school camps to support learner performance, forging partnerships with the business sector, and addressing the high failure rates in identified schools across the province.
“With 1463 schools under our care, we must remain agile, responsive and intentional in how we serve our learners. Learner results are a result of who you are and I am ready to work with all stakeholders to steer this department in the right direction,” he said.
The Guardian 