TUT Celebrates First Local Economic Development Doctorate Recipient. In a proud moment for the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and South Africa at large, Dr Lebogang Matholwane Mathole etched her name in the history books on 24 March 2025 by becoming the first recipient of a Doctorate in Economics, with a specialization in Local Economic Development (LED) from the University of Johannesburg. This remarkable milestone signifies not only a personal triumph for Dr Mathole but also a transformative achievement in the academic landscape of the country.
A Trailblazing Academic Journey
Dr Lebogang Matholwane Mathole, a dynamic and highly respected lecturer in the Department of Marketing and Tourism Management at TUT’s Mbombela Campus, has long been admired for her intellectual rigor, commitment to excellence, and dedication to the growth of local economies. Her passion for research and development, especially in the fields of marketing, tourism, and entrepreneurship, has made her a significant contributor to both academia and the broader socio-economic environment in South Africa.
Dr Mathole’s academic journey is one marked by resilience, vision, and innovation. As a member of the inaugural cohort of the Local Economic Development (LED) programme in 2019, her selection into this prestigious initiative was supported by a British Council grant, aimed at enhancing international academic collaboration.
Timeline of Dr Mathole Doctoral Journey
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2019 | Joined LED programme supported by British Council |
| 2020 | Participated in academic exchange at the University of Glasgow |
| 2022 | Completed major phases of doctoral research |
| 2025 | Awarded Doctorate in Economics in LED |
This program also included a study exchange at the University of Glasgow in the United Kingdom an opportunity that not only broadened her academic horizons but also contributed significantly to the development of cross border research collaborations between the UK and South Africa. The UK South Africa academic partnership, under which Dr Mathole research was nurtured, is now being hailed as a model for future international educational cooperation.
Groundbreaking Research in Local Economic Development
Dr Mathole’s doctoral thesis focused on entrepreneurial strategies for promoting locally produced luxury goods, a niche yet high potential sector in the South African economy. Her research integrated principles of consumer psychology, brand trust, and entrepreneurial development to offer a new framework for advancing Local Economic Development through indigenous product markets.
Her study, supervised by a panel of renowned academics including Prof Michael Osborne from the University of Glasgow, Prof Nokukhanya Jili from the University of Zululand, and Prof Marinda Pretorius from the University of Johannesburg provides robust, evidence-based strategies to empower local entrepreneurs.
Supervisors of Dr Mathole Research
| Supervisor | Institution |
|---|---|
| Prof Michael Osborne | University of Glasgow |
| Prof Nokukhanya Jili | University of Zululand |
| Prof Marinda Pretorius | University of Johannesburg |
These strategies are aimed at building consumer trust, improving product quality, enhancing brand image, and expanding market reach for local luxury goods. The research makes a strong case for the importance of cultivating locally driven economic initiatives to reduce unemployment, uplift communities, and foster sustainable growth.
Her pioneering contributions to Local Economic Development have earned international recognition. In particular, the Pascal International Observatory, an esteemed global research community, acknowledged her work as a valuable contribution to the global discourse on sustainable urban and rural development.
A Message of Gratitude and Humility
Reflecting on her journey, Dr Lebogang Matholwane Mathole shared a heartfelt message:
“It is a touching reminder of the discipline required to execute a plan effectively. Moreover, it reinforces the profound truth that, regardless of my efforts in planning, true victory is ultimately bestowed on us by God.”
Her words exemplify the humility and spiritual grounding that have been central to her success. Dr Mathole expressed deep gratitude to her family, friends, mentors, and institutions that supported her throughout this challenging yet rewarding journey.
She specifically thanked the Tshwane University of Technology, particularly the Department of Marketing and Tourism Management at the Mbombela Campus, for their unwavering support. She also acknowledged the British Council, the University of Johannesburg, Prof Marius Venter (Director of CENLED), her academic supervisors, and her beloved Mathole family for their faith and encouragement.
The Broader Impact on South African Society
Dr Mathole doctoral achievement carries immense implications for the future of Local Economic Development in South Africa. Her research underscores the critical need to uplift the informal sector and bridge the gap between small-scale entrepreneurs and the larger economy.
By emphasizing entrepreneurial empowerment, her findings advocate for the development of localized production systems, skill-building initiatives, and the establishment of supply chains that center around South African talent and raw materials. These interventions not only promote economic self-reliance but also help preserve South African culture and identity in the global market.
Contributions of Dr Mathole Research
| Contribution | Description |
|---|---|
| Promotes Local Goods | Focus on marketing luxury goods produced in SA |
| Builds Consumer Trust | Strategies to enhance consumer confidence |
| Encourages Job Creation | Practical methods to stimulate employment |
| Develops Entrepreneurial Skills | Frameworks for skills training and mentoring |
| Strengthens Local Economies | Promotes self-sufficiency through local production |
Dr Mathole’s vision is especially relevant in the post-pandemic world, where global supply chain disruptions have made the case for localized production even stronger. Her work demonstrates that investing in local capabilities is not only a smart economic strategy but also a moral imperative for inclusive development.
A Role Model for Women in Academia and Business
As a black South African woman, Dr Mathole’s achievement is particularly inspiring. In a world where gender disparity in academic and professional spaces remains a challenge, her story is a beacon of hope and progress.
She has not only shattered glass ceilings but also paved the way for future generations of female scholars and entrepreneurs to dream bigger, aim higher, and achieve greatness. Her success is a compelling example of how education, when supported by visionary leadership and strategic funding, can transform lives and communities.
Her presence at global conferences, her publications in esteemed journals, and her advocacy for Local Economic Development all speak to her deep commitment to advancing the continent’s economic potential.
Looking Ahead
With trailblazers like Dr Mathole leading the way, the future of Local Economic Development in South Africa looks promising. The country’s rich cultural resources, combined with innovative research and policy support, provide a fertile ground for developing sustainable local economies.
Her work lays a strong foundation for policymakers, academic institutions, and community leaders to collaborate in building inclusive economic frameworks that cater to the unique needs of diverse populations across South Africa.
As the Tshwane University of Technology continues to support high-impact research and academic excellence, success stories like that of Dr Mathole reaffirm the institution’s role as a pioneer of socio-economic transformation in South Africa.
Conclusion
The landmark achievement of Dr Lebogang Matholwane Mathole is a proud chapter in the history of Tshwane University of Technology and a giant leap forward for Local Economic Development in South Africa. Her work exemplifies the power of dedication, academic rigor, and collaborative innovation.
