Renowned Setswana broadcaster Ezekiel “Easy” Matjila has received an honorary doctorate from the North West University on Thursday.
Matjila was celebrated for his contributions to preserving and promoting Setswana through his broadcast work, which spans over three decades.
He has also been awarded by the Pan South African Language Board for the promotion of Setswana language and culture.
His career began as an on-air radio presenter at Radio Setswana, now known as Motsweding FM.
Career spanning 28 years
Matjila upgraded to being a Setswana sports commentator at the now SABC Sports. And he continued to work as a prime news presenter in Setswana, Sotho, and SePedi for 28 years.
“Allow me to express my gratitude and appreciation to the NWU for honouring an individual such as myself while still alive. I consider myself lucky and I am truly humbled,” said Matjila.
He said the three languages were underrated and felt it upon himself to promote them. The presenter also advocated for multilingual youth programmes.
“I am rooted in our Setswana language. And I hope that our mother tongue does not diminish as a result of new technology,” said Matjila.
“Throughout my career, I made it my mandate to deliver any presentation in the pure and living Setswana language. Both on radio and television. It is my wish that our upcoming generation should embrace our language. And remember that it is passed down from generation to generation,” he added.
Various Awards, qualifications
Matjila holds tertiary qualifications from the University of South Africa and Wits University. He also has qualifications from the Regenesys Business School.
The veteran presenter also has a number of awards under his belt. These include the Best News Writer from 2008 and the Commentator of the Year: AFCON in 1996.
Matjila acknowledged the honorary doctorate. He said it was important that the Setswana language and culture continue to be preserved. That programme anchors should be granted the respect and support that is deserved.
