A rapturous round of applause filled the Westville Sports Centre as Mr Sibusiso Zondo, a visually impaired graduate, walked across the stage to receive his Bachelor of Social Science degree.
At the back of the hall, his aunt, Sebenzile, and older brother, Sicelo were overcome with emotion and couldn’t contain tears of joy.
For Sebenzile, the moment held special significance, as she never imagined she would one day watch her nephew, who was born visually impaired, graduate.
Sicelo said he was immensely proud of Sibusiso for fulfilling his dream of attending university. His one regret was that their parents were not alive to witness this occasion.
“Sibusiso graduating means more to us than any of our own accomplishments because we have witnessed firsthand the challenges he has endured since infancy. Our only wish now is for him to secure employment, become self-sufficient, and be able to support himself,” he said.
Sibusiso found the achievement equally significant. He explained that he was born semi-blind, as he can see figures and colours to some extent but cannot read text either on paper or screens.
He says his academic journey has not been easy, but he is grateful to God for seeing him through his studies.
Hailing from Manzana in Bergville, he thanked his family for supporting his dream of attending university.
He also acknowledged the University’s Disability Unit for providing assistive devices, systems, and software applications such as JAWS and the Braille Pocket Reader that enabled him to succeed academically.
Looking ahead, the 29-year-old is applying for internships and hopes to pursue a postgraduate diploma in Human Resources or Transport and Logistics next year. He encouraged other people living with disabilities to pursue higher education and make the most of every opportunity.
“Don’t give up on your dreams and use all the opportunities given to you,” he said.
Sibusiso is one of 22 students graduates with disabilities who graduated at this year’s Spring Graduation.
Dr Normah Zondo, Executive Director of the Corporate Relations Division,
Said the achievements of graduates with disabilities underscore the importance of ensuring that access to education is accompanied by the support and inclusive environments that enable every student to succeed.
“Their success reaffirms our commitment to nurturing the potential of all our students.”
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