On 3 October 2024, Tebogo Jacko Magubane, Tshwane FM station manager, achieved a significant milestone. He graduated with his second degree, a Bachelor of Communication Science, during the #2024UnisaSpringGraduation ceremony. Previously, Magubane obtained an LLB degree in 2018 – this he credits to the university’s unwavering and impactful commitment to high-quality education, adding, "Unisa not only advanced my career, but additionally enriched my personal development during my years of studying with the university". 

Tebogo Jacko Magubane

Magubane was born in Winterveldt and raised in Kromkuil, on the outskirts of Pretoria. He describes growing up in this area as a luminous background which played a pivotal role in shaping his aspirations and dreams towards his radio career.

He continues: "From a young age, I was fascinated by communication, I was particularly drawn to storytelling and the power of radio. I grew up listening to SABC's African language stations such as Radio Setswana, Radio Lebowa and Radio Zulu. Later, in the early 1990s, Radio Tsonga (now Munghana Lonene FM) became available in Pretoria, and I became a staunch listener. I knew then that one day, I would work in radio, and that dream became a reality."

Radio manager, trainer and programming specialist

Magubane, who describes himself as a specialist in radio training and programming with over 20 years in the industry, studied broadcasting techniques for developing countries at the China Radio and TV Corporation (CRTV) for the International Techno-Economic Cooperation in the People's Republic of China. He completed a Certificate in Broadcasting Techniques for Developing Countries and has an Advanced Certificate in from the University of Witwatersrand. He previously held the position of programmes manager, then later acting station manager at SABC’s Munghana Lonene, before his appointment to Tshwane FM.

Renewed perspective about radio

Magubane says that through his latest Unisa degree he obtained a renewed perspective of radio management. He combined the theoretical knowledge and practical experience he gained. He adds that this has left an indelible impression on him about radio in the 21^st century, given its rapidly expanding modes of content delivery. He adds: "I am especially excited about the immediate application of what I have learned in my day-to-day work and the positive impact it has had on my team and our audience."

Journeying with Unisa – manageable and rewarding

Magubane says studying at Unisa was a fulfilling but challenging experience. He expressed that although the university’s open, distance and e-Learning (ODeL) model demands discipline and dedication, it offered him the flexibility to balance his academic pursuits and his professional role.

He continues: "My recent appointment as Tshwane FM station manager was quite demanding. Oftentimes, I found myself studying late at night or early in the morning before heading to the station. However, the well-structured courses and the supportive tutors made the entire journey both manageable and rewarding."

He adds that the university’s uniqueness lies in its flexibility and accessibility in that it caters to individuals who are already in the workforce or have other commitments. This, he says, had profoundly impacted his life, as he could continue advancing his career while pursuing his studies. He adds: "Moreover, I struggled with time management, but Unisa provided ample online resources and discussion forums to help bridge that gap. There were times when I had to manage multiple deadlines, both academic and professional, which tested my resilience, but overcoming these obstacles has made me stronger."

Currently, Magubane is working on a podcast series titled Magubane's Radio Playbook, which, he says, will be available later this year.

Inspiring others through his qualifications

Magubane fervently thanked the university’s teaching and learning method and the knowledge he acquired, particularly disciplines in communication strategies. "These," he says, "have significantly impacted how I manage the station. I now approach content creation, audience engagement and programming more strategically, and these changes have boosted the station’s performance and reach."

Concluding his message, Magubane says he hopes his journey can inspire others, particularly those who feel it is too late to pursue further education or those fearing they might not be able to balance work and studies. He adds: "My Unisa qualifications are a testament to my determination and time management. Through this combination one can achieve both professional and academic success."

* By Godfrey Madibane, Acting Journalist, Department of Institutional Advancement

* * Photography by Ian Mabaso, Social Media Coordinator