QUMBU GRADUATE EARNS BSC AFTER SEVEN YEARS OF FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES

What was meant to be a three-year degree became a seven-year journey for Sonelise Sibali after financial difficulties forced him to interrupt his studies.

Sibali’s academic journey was disrupted multiple times due to a lack of funding. Without accommodation and a meal allowance, and relying on his mother, a domestic worker, for financial support, continuing his studies became increasingly difficult.Against all odds, his journey culminated in him graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences at iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu’s Spring Graduation on 25 September 2026.

Born and raised in Nyanisweni Location, Qumbu, The 26-year-old became the first graduate in his family when he received his qualification at the institution's Spring Graduation on 25 September 2026.

Sibali had initially applied to study MBChB but, after falling short of the required Admission Point Score (APS), accepted an offer to study Biological Sciences. He soon developed an interest in the programme, particularly its focus on research.

“There were times when I thought of just giving up because I was struggling a lot,” said Sibali.

While his peers progressed through their studies and graduated, Sibali had to watch from the sidelines as he continued working towards his own qualification.

“It was very hurtful seeing my peers completing the degree and moving ahead whilst I was deregistering. But I kept telling myself that one day I would be at the same level as them,” said Sibali.

Support from friends, lecturers and university structures helped him remain on his academic path. Sibali also accessed the university’s counselling services during a period in which his mental health deteriorated.

Sibali credited his lecturers, friends and family for encouraging him to persevere, while reserving special thanks for his mother, Nosonwabiso Sibali.

“She was struggling, but she never gave up on me. She would ask when I was finally going to finish studying, and I kept telling her that I would finish,” Sibali shared.

Reflecting on his journey, Sibali encouraged students facing similar challenges not to measure their progress against that of others.

“You might not complete your degree within the expected period, but do not give up. Believe in yourself and use the university resources available to you,” said Sibali.

Having completed his BSc, Sibali plans to pursue an Honours degree and hopes to build further on his interest in research.

By Yanga Ziwele