Scholarship Unlocks Dreams for School of Commerce Students

BY: .

The Malegapuru W. Makgoba Scholarship, awarded annually to top-performing undergraduate students, recognised three academic achievers in the College of Law and Management Studies - Mr Aswad Mari, Ms Andiswa Mathenjwa and Ms Lerato Xaba - all from the School of Commerce.

Beyond the accolades, the scholarship provides critical financial support - lifting a significant burden from their families while motivating them to continue excelling in their studies.

For Mari, a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) student from Durban, the scholarship is both an honour and a symbol of his academic discipline. As the youngest of four siblings, Mari’s passion for Commerce was cultivated at Arena Park Secondary School, where his journey of curiosity and ambition began.

“Choosing a course was challenging because the commercial field is so broad. But after a lot of research, I chose BBA because it offers a strong foundation in finance, management, and strategy - all the things I love,” he reflected.

“This scholarship is not only a recognition of my efforts but also an incentive to remain focused and achieve my goal in industries I aspire to work in such as human resource management, financial analytics, or entrepreneurship. It has eased the financial strain and allowed me to give my studies my full attention,” he added.

For Mathenjwa, studying for a Bachelor of Administration, the scholarship meant rising above the challenges. Growing up in a home where financial constraints were a daily reality, her journey to UKZN was paved with perseverance and support from her family and teachers from Emchakweni High School in Umtubatuba where she matriculated. 

“I always knew that education was the key to changing my life and receiving this scholarship has lifted a heavy weight off my shoulders. I am now able to focus entirely on my studies and pursue my passion for administration without worry. This field excites me because it’s where real change can happen and I can make a positive contribution to organisational development behind the scenes,” she said. 

Xaba, a second-year Bachelor of Administration student from Pietermaritzburg, nearly had her educational journey derailed by financial difficulties. But she remained resolute - driven by her belief in education as a tool for transformation.

“There were times when I couldn’t afford textbooks, and it was very discouraging but with the support from my family and friends, I pushed through. Getting this scholarship means everything - it’s not just financial help, it’s a reminder that my hard work is paying off,” she said. 

Xaba has set her sights on a career in local government, where she hopes to address service delivery issues and advocate for community inclusion in decision-making processes. 

“This degree has opened my eyes to the real-world challenges people face daily. I want to be part of the change that brings efficient services and empowerment to communities.” 

Throughout her journey, Xaba’s motivation has remained deeply rooted in family and faith. “When I was accepted into UKZN, my parents held a small celebration for me. They’ve been my biggest cheerleaders, always reminding me to believe in myself and through every challenge, I’ve held onto my faith and been carried by the scripture: ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,’” she said. 

Each of these scholars carries a unique story. For them, the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship is not only a symbol of inspired greatness, but also a catalyst that transforms academic excellence into purpose.

Words: Ayanda Radebe

Photograph: Andile Ndlovu