58-YEAR-OLD MOM ACHIEVES LIFELONG DREAM OF RISING THROUGH THE RANKS OF EDUCATION

At 58-years old, Angela Noluthando Hliso-Kaulela proudly walked the graduation stage to collect her Bachelor of Administration Honours degree from Walter Sisulu University’s Butterworth Campus on 8 May 2025.

Married at the age of 22, Hliso-Kaulela spent decades dreaming of one day furthering her studies, while she worked as an accounting clerk for the Department of Education.

For years, she enrolled repeatedly in long-distance learning programmes, often managing to pass only one module or dropping out due to the demands of raising a family and working full time.

In 2019, at the age of 51, the mother of three took a leap of faith and enrolled at WSU for a National Diploma in Public Management, followed by an advanced diploma in 2023.

“I am excited and proud of myself for this achievement at my age. This achievement has boosted my confidence and self-esteem in my abilities. Finally, I am living my dream,” said Hliso-Kaulela.

Despite the delays in successfully pursuing higher education, the grandmother of three maintained that her life experiences offered invaluable assistance in applying theoretical concepts to real life problems.

“My greatest challenge was academic rustiness; I struggled to study after a long break. Another significant challenge was managing financial difficulties. However, I overcame these challenges by updating my study skills, refreshing knowledge, and developing effective study habits,” she remarked.

Now pursuing a Master of Public Administration Degree, Hliso-Kaulela said that it was her family’s support that kept her going.

“My husband, children, and grandchildren support and motivate me when the going gets tough. My 84-year-old mom is my prayer warrior who supports my dreams. I thank God for granting me strength, resilience, and brains to continue studying at my age,” she said.

Her message to others is simple: “Don’t let age hold you back from pursuing your dreams. With determination and hard work, it’s possible to achieve your goals at any stage of life.”

By Yanga Ziwele