Murphy Morobe facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Murphy Morobe
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| Born | 2 October 1956 |
| Nationality |  South African |
| Known for | Student Activist and Politics |
| Children | 4 |
Murphy Morobe (born 2 October 1956) is a very important person from South Africa who helped end apartheid. Apartheid was a system of unfair rules that separated people based on their race. He played a big role as a student leader and activist during a difficult time in his country's history.
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Early Life and Education
Murphy Morobe started his schooling in Ermelo. He finished primary school in Soweto. After that, he went to Orlando North Secondary School and Morris Isaacson High School. While he was in high school, he became very interested in politics and history.
Joining the Student Movement
In 1972, Murphy Morobe became a member of the South African Student’s Movement (SASM). This group was important to him because it focused on bringing people together and helping communities grow. Many members of SASM were arrested in 1973, which made the group weaker for a while.
A Leader in the Fight for Freedom
In 1974, Murphy Morobe helped to rebuild SASM. He was then chosen to be the group's treasurer. His leadership skills were clear, and he soon became one of the main student leaders.
The Soweto Uprising
In June 1976, Murphy Morobe was one of the key student leaders during the Soweto Uprising. This was a major protest where students spoke out against unfair education laws. Because of his part in the uprising, he spent three years in prison on Robben Island. He was held with other student leaders and even with Nelson Mandela, a famous South African political leader. Murphy Morobe was released from prison in May 1982.
After Prison: Continuing the Struggle
After being released from prison, Murphy Morobe quickly returned to politics. He joined several important groups that were working for change in South Africa.
Joining Key Organizations
He became involved with the Congress of South African Students (COSAS) and the General and Allied Worker’s Union. In 1983, he also helped to create the United Democratic Front (South Africa) (UDF). These groups were all working to bring fairness and equality to South Africa.
Later Career and Public Service
After apartheid ended, Murphy Morobe continued to serve his country in many important ways.
Leadership Roles
By 1994, Murphy Morobe became the Chairperson and CEO of the Financial and Fiscal Commission in South Africa. This group helps manage the country's money. He also served on the Council on Higher Education (CHE), which looks after universities and colleges.
Protecting Nature and Helping Others
Today, Murphy Morobe is the Chairman of the South African National Parks Board (SANP). This means he helps protect South Africa's beautiful national parks and wildlife. He is also part of the International Fundraising Consortium, which gives money to non-profit groups in South Africa. Additionally, he is a Director on the board of Old Mutual South Africa, a large financial company.
Spokesman for a President
Murphy Morobe has also served as the spokesman for former South African President Thabo Mbeki. This role involves speaking to the public on behalf of the former president.
