
Former Street Kid Graduates with a Master of Commerce in Economics Cum Laude
As a 14-year-old boy facing the harsh realities of living on the streets of Pietermaritzburg, Master of Commerce in Economics cum laude graduate Mr Declek Khwazi Magubane never gave up on his pursuit of education.
‘In December 2006, I decided to become a street kid due to abuse I was suffering at the hand of my caregivers and as I was becoming a thief. However, after a year on the streets begging at the robots, puffing on glue to numb myself and hustling to survive, I took a decision to get off the streets. A local preacher took me in and Ms Zinhle Hadebe, who I met on the streets, motivated and supported me to go back to school. I have never looked back,’ said Magubane.
While acclimatising to life off the streets and letting go of bad habits proved difficult, Magubane remained determined and finished matric.
‘I applied at UKZN and other institutions and was admitted at UKZN to study the BCom Foundation. After finishing the Foundation programme, I registered for a BA in International Studies and went back to do my BCom Honours. During the first three years at UKZN, I had no bursary or NSFAS funding and was supported financially by Hadebe until receiving NSFAS support in my final-year. I was able to do my honours through securing a bursary from the National Research Foundation and my master's through fee remission in between working as an Academic Development Officer to sustain myself,’ said Magubane.
With aspirations to become an economist, Magubane is proud that he fulfilled his dream of graduating with his master's cum laude and is excited about the future.
‘I was motivated to pursue an MCom degree because I wanted to show other street kids and all the disadvantaged children of the world that it is possible to change your circumstances. I came to university because I wanted to improve my circumstances and this is what keeps me going. Obtaining this qualification cum laude is life changing for me as it affirms that if you concentrate on achieving your dreams, they will eventually materialise. I am blessed to have people supporting me; they are all part of my success and I am very grateful.’
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Supplied