High hopes for KZN graduate who cuts grass for a living
Despite growing up without both his parents and earning a minimum wage, Siyabonga Chaliluque beat the odds and graduated with a degree from Unisa.
The University of South Africa (Unisa) shared a beautiful story to kick off the week positively.
We heard the heartwarming story of Siyabonga Chaliluque, a 32-year-old man from rural Kwesakwa Mthethwa in Empangeni, in northern KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Chaliluque comes from humble beginnings, but despite his challenges, he recently graduated with a Bachelor of Education degree from Unisa.
Chaliluque lost his parents at a young age. Being one of five children, he was raised by his eldest sister, who filled the role of caregiver to the entire family.
When he matriculated from Uyengo High School in Bumbaneni, KwaMbonambi, he didn't get the proper guidance on how to navigate a career path after school.
He pursued a grass-cutting job, as few opportunities were available. "Deep down, he knew he wished to do something meaningful with his life, but his initial focus became surviving and looking after his siblings," Unisa reports on their website.
He would earn a wage of R150 a day and managed to make ends meet. The opportunity to study arose when he encountered a fellow community member studying through Unisa. After asking for help, he registered with Unisa and was encouraged to continue his studies when he became a father in 2015.
Correspondence learning proved challenging for Chaliluque, who had limited internet connectivity and Wi-Fi issues, but his determination kept him going.
This is why his graduation this year was such a milestone for him. Unlike the other graduates at the June graduation ceremony, who focused on celebrating, Chaliluque was emotional as he clutched onto the Regional Director, Dr Joyce Myeza, who was the registrar on the day, and cried uncontrollably.
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Now, Chilulique's only wish is to secure a teaching position, which he hopes will help him lift his family out of poverty.
I hope, as a Unisa graduate, to one day stop cutting grass for a living, and to be employed as an educator. One day, through this Unisa qualification, I hope to provide for my family, son, and community. I am indebted to this impoverished community and wish to give back to it in any way I can.
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