Siyabonga Chaliluque, a determined father of one from a rural town in KwaZulu-Natal, has achieved an extraordinary feat by obtaining a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of South Africa (Unisa).
The 32-year-old graduate’s journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his goals, despite facing numerous challenges along the way. In June, Siyabonga proudly walked the stage at a graduation ceremony in Durban, marking a significant milestone in his life.
Growing up in a family of five children, his life took a dramatic turn when he lost both his parents at a young age. His father passed away in 1999, followed by his mother in 2000. The emotional scars from these losses still linger, but Siyabonga refused to let his circumstances define him.
Without guidance on his post-school career path, he took matters into his own hands. After matriculating from Uyengo High School in Bumbaneni, KwaMbonambi, he sought out odd jobs to support his siblings.
One of his ventures was working for a local entrepreneur who ran a small-scale grass-cutting business, earning a modest R150 per day. Although the pay was minimal, Siyabonga described it as “not bad” considering his situation. However, he yearned for more meaning in his life.
That’s when he met a community member who was studying through Unisa. Inspired by this individual’s pursuit of higher education, he asked for assistance with his application and registration.
With his son’s birth in 2015, his motivation to continue his studies intensified. Despite the challenges of limited internet connectivity, Wi-Fi issues, and living far from modern technology, he persevered. His hard work and determination ultimately paid off when he graduated.
Now, Siyabonga hopes to secure a teaching position, not only to provide for his family but also to give back to his community. He expressed his gratitude to the community that has supported him thus far and emphasised his desire to make a positive impact.
“I hope, as a Unisa graduate, to one day stop cutting grass for a living and be employed as an educator,” he said. “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.”
Siyabonga’s story serves as a powerful reminder that with determination and hard work, anyone can overcome adversity and achieve their goals. His journey is an inspiration to many, and his commitment to giving back to his community is a testament to his character. As he embarks on this new chapter in his life, he is sure to make a lasting impact on those around him.
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