Chipcor Developers, led by businessman and football boss Siviwe “Chippa” Mpengesi, has been appointed as the new custodian of the historic Transnet School of Excellence, a major step toward rebuilding South Africa’s elite youth football development system.
The School of Excellence, once the country’s premier football academy and the launchpad for stars such as Steven Pienaar, Daine Klate, Bernard Parker and Bryce Moon, has recently produced promising graduates including Siyabonga Mabena, Relebohile Mofokeng, Kutlwano Lethlaku, Emile Witbooi and Boitumelo Radiopane.
Proven Track Record in Facility Turnarounds
Mpengesi’s appointment follows his successful interventions at major sports facilities. He revitalised Cape Town’s Philippi Stadium into an active football venue, and later rehabilitated East London’s abandoned ABSA Stadium, now BCM Stadium turning it into a safe community sports hub and home to Chippa United’s second team. He also established Chippa College, a sports-focused secondary school, on the same campus.
Reviving and Expanding the Academy
Under Chipcor, the School of Excellence will undergo comprehensive upgrades to its training fields, academic facilities, residences, and security systems. Its development model will expand beyond football to include:
Technical and artisan training
Construction and maintenance trades
Introductory police-oriented qualifications
Career-readiness and character-building programmes
Additional sports such as rugby, athletics, cricket, netball and boxing
The objective is to produce well-rounded, employable young people with pathways both in and outside sport.
National Collaboration and Future Growth
Chipcor will work closely with key national and regional partners such as the NYDA, SAFA, the PSL, Ekurhuleni Municipality, and the Departments of Sport, Basic Education and Higher Education. A modern hotel is also planned for the campus, leveraging its proximity to OR Tambo International Airport to strengthen tourism and event access.
Strategic Handover from Transnet
After financial instability under previous management, Transnet took temporary responsibility for the academy before launching a competitive RFI and RFP process. Chipcor Developers emerged as the preferred custodian to secure the school’s legacy and ensure its long-term sustainability.
Mpengesi: “This Is a Calling”
Mpengesi said the appointment is a mission to uplift youth and restore one of South Africa’s most important football institutions:
“We thank God for this opportunity. This is more than a project, it is a calling to uplift youth, serve communities, and restore a school that has shaped giants of South African football. We will do everything in our power to elevate this institution for the next generation.”