UKZN Student Beats Odds to Secure Master’s Degree

BY: .

Despite challenging personal circumstances, Mr Siyabonga Nxumalo of Greytown in KwaZulu-Natal graduated with a Master of Social Sciences degree from UKZN.

Following the death of his mother in 2006, Nxumalo struggled to make ends meet and during his early undergraduate years he experienced exceptionally tough personal and financial difficulties.

‘I was happy to be accepted at UKZN and I was looking forward to studying here,’ said Nxumalo, ‘but it was difficult for me in first year because I struggled to find sufficient funding. I had to beg for food and accommodation.’

The following year there were outstanding fees to settle but he had no money. ‘I approached the local newspaper, the Greytown Gazette, and they publicised my plea for help.’

Good Samaritans Mr Emmanuel Ndlovu and a Mrs Gangai read his story and assisted Nxumalo in settling his debt at UKZN and he was then able to register for second year.

His difficulties eased after that and he raised money for the remainder of his studies. Nxumalo is grateful to everyone who assisted him financially to complete his master’s degree.

Working with the Association for the Physically Challenged, formerly known as the Cripple Care Association, he researched the lives of people living with physical disabilities in KwaZulu-Natal.

Nxumalo’s interest in his research topic was tweaked in 2015 when he attended a workshop for students at UKZN’s Denison residence on the theme of students living with disabilities.

A friend, Mr Andrew Gwacela, described Nxumalo as a man filled with ambition. ‘Siyabonga and I studied together at UKZN and became good friends. He struggled without family support but refused to let his circumstances or background get him down. I want to congratulate him for this tremendous achievement.’

Nxumalo thanked God and all the people who have supported him. ‘I want to say that if it wasn’t for the support of everyone around me maybe I wouldn’t have come this far.

‘Patience is the key to success. Reading and writing are crucial to prepare for a challenging academic world where innovative writing is essential.’

Nxumalo is currently studying towards his PhD in Historical Studies.

Words by: Nomcebo Mncube

Photograph by Rajesh Jantilal