Mother and daughter graduate from UKZN

BY: .

It was a double celebration for the Akombelwa family as both Ms Doris Akombelwa and her daughter, Chibwe, graduated from UKZN.

Doris graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work, while Chibwe graduated with a Bachelor of Social Science.

‘It hasn’t been easy. I used to feel emotional sometimes. I wanted to stop in third year,’ said Doris.  ‘I went to my lecturers and told them that I couldn’t cope. They told me that Social Work was a professional degree and I needed to finish it,’ said Doris.

‘I told them I was super stressed but they responded that I had to continue and I went into fourth year and finished. Now I’m pursuing my MA in Childcare and Protection. I thank the lecturers for not letting me give up. They were very encouraging. Social work is something I’ve always wanted to do. It’s not very easy but it’s my passion. I just want to help people.’

Pursuing her studies at the same time as her daughter, had been challenging, however.

‘It was so scary when I knew we would pursue our studies at the same time. I didn’t know how my life was going to be but I would say to her: “Do your work, don’t bother with your house chores now”.’

‘My husband was also very supportive and assisted with everything. My four years have been hectic and it’s still not easy now that I’m doing my masters’

Chibwe (21) said it was ‘awesome’ to graduate with her mother.

‘It really feels good to be graduating with my mom. I’m proud of her. She’s worked so hard for it and despite the challenges of having a family, she managed.’

Chibwe is currently pursuing Honours in Media Theory degree.

‘I want to be a writer for newspapers. I’m currently writing three books and I also write poetry.’

Ndaba Online