Nombulelo Msane cried tears of joy when she was awarded her Diploma in Accounting at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2024 Autumn Graduation ceremony on Friday, 24 May 2024.

The 22-year-old Msane, who is physically impaired, was proud of herself for successfully completing her studies despite the challenges she had faced during her academic journey. As her name was called from the podium, her family were filled pride and excitement as she graced the graduation stage.

“Throughout my academic journey, my family had been very supportive and they had always believed in me. So, seeing them that excited during my graduation ceremony made all the hard work, sweat and tears worth it,” shared Msane.

Nombulelo Msane.

Her academic journey at DUT commenced in 2021 and she expressed that she had faced some challenges adapting to university life, during her first year. However, she was able to overcome them.

“One of my greatest challenges was adapting to the campus environment, as the campuses were not fully wheelchair accessible. I had problems socialising with my peers as I did not feel competent, however, I overcame these challenges by finding routes and having a positive mindset and a support system that showed me that I was as capable as the rest of my peers,” reiterated Msane.

Advising other students with disabilities, Msane said that they should have a positive mindset and must never waste their energy on negative thoughts.

“Do not dwell on what you think you can’t do; with a positive mindset and determination, you can do anything that the next person can do. Remember, it might not be done at the same speed but you can still do it,” added Msane.

She extended her sincere gratitude to the Disability Rights Unit at DUT for their support and guidance throughout her academic journey.

“The Disability Rights Unit was instrumental in helping me have a comfortable residence experience by allocating a caretaker to help me and allocating me to a residence that was wheelchair accessible. I will forever be grateful to the Disability Rights Unit for making my stay at DUT pleasant and for helping me create good memories,” shared Msane.

She is looking forward to securing employment and to further her studies in the future.

Pictured: Nombulelo Msane during her graduation at DUT.

Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.

Minenhle Zikhali/Simangele Zuma