The journey to academic success is rarely a straight line. For Sipho Sphamandla Ngema, a Bachelor of Arts (Development Studies) graduate from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, it was a decade-long mountain climb.
Growing up in the Ongoye area in Empangeni as the youngest of eight siblings, Ngema’s background presented heavy financial and personal hurdles. Yet, his story stands as a beacon of ultimate motivation for every University of Zululand (UNIZULU) student, that giving up is never an option.
Ngema first registered in 2015, but a series of gruelling setbacks continuously halted his progress. In 2020, lack of funding forced him to take a gap year. Returning in 2021, COVID-19 disruptions prevented him from writing exams. In 2022, a life-or-death family emergency forced him to put his studies on hold just two weeks into the semester. The following year, a severe eye injury left him unable to read, forcing another dropout.
Faced with mounting despair, Ngema sought spiritual solace at the Shembe church in December 2023, praying for a breakthrough. To survive and support his family alongside his brother, he paved yards part-time.
Through all those years of stagnation, Ngema watched his matric friend, Dr Zwelakhe Thulasizwe Mascot Maseko, breeze ahead graduating with his Bachelor’s in 2018, then his honours, his master’s and finally, a PhD. On 14 May, both friends shared the exact same graduation session. While Dr Maseko received his NQF Level 10 doctorate, Ngema received his long-awaited degree.
Instead of bitterness, Ngema found inspiration. “Throughout the years, you motivated me,” Ngema told his friend, understanding that true friendship does not compete, it lifts you up.
It Takes a Village to Raise a Child
Ngema’s victory is also a beautiful testament to the spirit of Ubuntu on our campus. While his sister generously bought him his graduation suit and shoes, Ngema lacked the funds for his graduation attire. Ahead of the big day, stranded without a gown, he crossed paths with three angels from the University’s Protection Services Department: Mr Masinga, Mr Mkhwanazi and Mr Ntuli.
Moving swiftly to help, one of the guards phoned his wife, who had graduated that Monday, to secure a gown and mortarboard. The others sourced the hood and tassel. This selfless act was not an isolated incident; these officers are known for quietly coming through for students in need. Without them, Ngema would not have walked the stage.
“I am forever grateful to them and my sister,” Ngema said.
He said that this 10-year milestone is not the end, it is just the beginning. He views his journey as a powerful reminder that no matter how many times you are forced to pause, drop out, or restart, your dream remains valid.
– Precious Shamase
Picture: Supplied
