Following his election on October 8, Laka was entrusted to lead the body for four years until 2027 and has expressed his determination to unlock student athletes' potential in South Africa.

"I aspire for the USSA to make significant strides in fostering inclusivity and increase in membership and participation," Laka said.

"Additionally, we need to focus on the development of our student and staff with increased capacitation, reintroducing the provincial games as qualifiers for National USSA Championships, and the revival of our provincial committees in an effort to decentralise the work of the NEC to achieve a more inclusive, diverse, and active organisation."

At the time of his ascension to USSA President, Laka was sport director at the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein.

He has also previously served on the USSA Executive Committee and was a co-opted member based on his position as secretary general at the Confederation of Universities and College Sports Associations.

Furthermore, he served as the organisation's chair from 2010 until 2012, and as chief finance and marketing officer from 2014 to 2016.

"I must admit that running for the position of President at USSA was a significant undertaking, and I approached it with a deep sense of commitment to the development of sport in our country," Laka said.

"While I would not say I anticipated the outcome, I did believe in the vision I have and the positive impact it could have on the sporting landscape.

"I look forward to working alongside my Executive Committee to collaborate with stakeholders, athletes, and sport enthusiasts to ensure that our country continues to excel in the world of sport, both on and off the field."

South Africa finished 19^th in the most recent Summer World University Games standings with two gold, 11 silver, and seven bronze medals.

Laka will be looking to ready his athletes to perform their best at the next edition, due to be held at Rhine-Ruhr in 2025.