Thabi Leoka, an independent non-executive director at MTN South Africa, has tendered her resignation following allegations of misrepresentation regarding her academic qualifications. The telecommunications giant has officially accepted Leoka’s resignation, citing health concerns and the ongoing scrutiny surrounding her credentials. This development has sent shockwaves through the business community, raising questions about the importance of academic qualifications in professional roles.

Leoka, a prominent figure in economic advisory circles and a former economic advisor to President Cyril Ramaphosa, recently faced allegations of falsely claiming a Ph.D. degree from the London School of Economics (LSE). Last week, these allegations gained momentum, prompting MTN South Africa to investigate the matter. In a statement released on Monday, the telecommunications company confirmed the acceptance of Leoka’s resignation, effective immediately.

The controversy surrounding Leoka’s qualifications has not only affected her position at MTN but has also led to her departure from the board of mining giant Amplats. It was reported that she was ousted from the board of Remgro, a company owned by billionaire Johann Rupert, allegedly due to these allegations. Leoka has vehemently denied falsifying her academic qualifications and is taking legal action against “Business Day” for publishing the claims.

MTN South Africa clarified that Leoka resigned to address health concerns and the questions raised about her academic credentials. The company acknowledged her service since joining the board in 2019 but emphasized the need to uphold transparency and credibility in leadership roles. The departure of a high-profile director has fueled debates about corporate governance and the scrutiny placed on executives’ qualifications.

In response to the allegations, Thabi Leoka has expressed her intention to take legal action against the publication that brought the accusations to light. Her defense points out that she left Remgro for health-related reasons, and her qualifications shouldn’t overshadow her contributions. Leoka’s spokesperson, Mr. Msibi, highlighted that even the founder of Remgro, Johann Rupert, was a university dropout, implying that academic qualifications might not necessarily correlate with one’s capabilities.

This incident has sparked broader discussions about the significance of academic qualifications in the professional world. While credentials are generally considered essential, the controversy surrounding Leoka raises questions about the potential overemphasis on formal education. Some argue that practical experience and achievements should also be valued in evaluating an individual’s suitability for high-profile roles.

Thabi Leoka’s resignation from MTN South Africa amidst allegations of misrepresenting her academic qualifications has left the business community contemplating the balance between educational credentials and practical experience. It prompts a broader conversation about the criteria for assessing leadership qualifications and the impact of such controversies on individuals’ professional trajectories. Only time will reveal the lasting repercussions of this incident on both Thabi Leoka and the corporate South Africa.