International Student Graduates in Traditional Attire

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Ms Sebongile Tshabalala showcased her culture as she walked the stage in her traditional Basotho attire to receive her Bachelor of Social Science Honours degree in Public Policy.

Tshabalala danced her way across the stage during the Humanities Graduation ceremony, treating guests and fellow graduands to glimpses of her traditional dance, which was greeted with cheers and applause.

Tshabalala, who is originally from Lesotho, said it was important for her to attend her Graduation ceremony in traditional attire. Studying at UKZN had been a childhood dream of hers and she wanted to represent her country during this special occasion.

She decided to further her studies to honour the memory of her grandmother who passed away in 2021 and the journey was not all smooth going as she experienced personal issues at the beginning of her studies but ultimately overcame them through determination and perseverance.

‘Now that I have obtained my honours degree, I plan to pursue a master’s degree and then I will go out into the corporate world. I am doing my Masters in Public Policy so I see myself practising as a policy analyst and also being an academic - I want to be a professor and to represent my country,’ said Tshabalala.

UKZN graduations are a time not only for celebrating academic achievements but are also a platform where the different cultures that exist within the institution are showcased. A number of international students graduated during the recent Graduation ceremonies, with some proudly carrying their country flags with them on stage.

Words: Sinenhlanhla Mkhwanazi

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini