Mpengesi takes charge of Africa School of Excellence with bold plans to restore its legacy

Formerly known as the Transnet–SAFA School of Excellence, the academy was formally handed over to Chipcor Holdings yesterday, bringing an end to Transnet’s 31-year stewardship. Mpengesi has outlined an ambitious vision to transform the facility into a world-class academy that will play a central role in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) and the broader national development pipeline.

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"Yes, it's part of my plans. Now I will unveil my plans for January but there's a big surprise that is coming along the lines of what we are saying. But the team must have a full time DDC team that is here, also I want to persuade PSL to bring the DDC project here - so that other DDC teams, their players can be kept here, not just for our team but for most the PSL clubs," said Mpengesi.

His long-term plan includes modernising the school’s infrastructure, enhancing technical programmes and integrating clearer pathways into the professional game.

The transition follows a lengthy and competitive process. SABC Sport understands that Transnet initially received 12 bids through the RFI and RFQ stages before the list was reduced to five. Mpengesi ultimately emerged with the winning proposal, regarded as the most comprehensive and sustainable among the finalists.

Transnet’s decision to relinquish control came after years of financial strain. The state-owned company has spent more than R200 million running the school, but in recent years, has struggled to meet the institution’s operational demands. The company’s Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) Adv. Michelle Phillips has more on what won Mpengesi this bid.

"It was not an easy decision, we understood the impact on learners and parents. That is why we committed to a responsible and transparent process to find a suitable donor to uphold the school's proud legacy. The reason we hand over the school to Chipcor Holdings is because they have presented by far the best proposal, emerging as a clear choice after demonstrating a strong financial capacity and presented a comprehensive plan for school management, boarding facilities and professional football development. So effective from 1 January 2026, they will assume full ownership and operational responsibility for the school," said Phillips.

The school currently accommodates over 120 talented boys, drawn from disadvantaged communities across the country, ranging from Grade 8 to matric. While SAFA had long been a strategic partner in the project, the organisation’s CEO, Lydia Monyepao, says they support the transition and view Mpengesi’s involvement as an opportunity to safeguard and strengthen the academy’s legacy.

The institution has produced numerous elite players, including Steven Pienaar, Bernard Parker, Keagan Dolly, Aubrey Modiba and, most recently, Relebohile Mofokeng. Mpengesi intends to build on that history by re-establishing the academy as a premier talent pipeline for both club and country.

"As I said, I love this project more than I love Chippa United and this is not Chippa United but a project of its own. I am looking forward to developing future Mofokengs, Pienaars of this world, as you can see they are here today. Keagan Dolly, Bernard Parker you name them, but not only soccer players - we want doctors, engineers and the best professionals in this place," added Mpengesi.

The handover has also sparked renewed optimism among the learners. Many have endured difficult conditions in recent years, and youngsters like Lulo Matthews hope the new leadership will stabilise the environment and restore the school to its former glory days.