Thandiwe Sosiba received a standing ovation when she graced the stage to obtain her Diploma in Public Administration, specializing in Supply Chain Management, at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2023 Autumn Graduation at Indumiso Campus Hall in Pietermaritzburg, on Tuesday afternoon (16 May 2023).

Sosiba (23) from KwaNyamazane in Pietermaritzburg, was born with a walking disability, however, her desire to succeed in life motivated her to pursue her studies at DUT. She completed her matric at the Open Air School for learners living with disabilities.

Thandiwe Sosiba excited after graduating.

“I was overwhelmed, I was not excepting to receive a standing ovation. It was amazing walking on that stage, I really enjoyed every part of it. I was nervous, going from where I was sitting to the ramp on the other side was a bit too much for me but at least I managed,” said Sosiba.

When she joined DUT in 2019, she first did her Higher Certificate in Public Administration and a year later, she enrolled for her Diploma in Public Administration: Supply Chain Management.

“When I joined DUT, I had a great experience. My residence was across the road, so it was easier for me. My roommates were very helpful and understanding. The challenge began when I started my Diploma. I was staying at Indumiso, so I had to use the bus to Riverside Campus. My challenge was that I cannot use the stairs, so sometimes, I would miss classes. Things became better when we were provided with our own bus, catering for our special needs,” said Sosiba.

During her Higher Certificate journey, she recalled one incident where the elevators were not working for a month, and she had to use the stairs. Sosiba said she approached the Head of Department and requested for her classes to be moved to the ground floor. In no time, her request was granted and the entire class had agreed to move, to accommodate her.

The COVID-19 lockdown came as a blessing for her as it meant less travelling. She was grateful to her classmates for accommodating and assisting her in all possible ways. Sometimes students would even assist in carrying her bag throughout the day.

According to Sosiba, in high school they were taught about the importance of being independent.

“Studying for me was a way of avoiding having a double disability. Life is tough as it is and to be able to get a job and be able to support myself and my family, I need to get an office job. I cannot work in retail due to my disability. I need to be able to support myself financially,” said Sosiba.

Advising parents who have children living with disabilities, Sosiba said they should not hide them in the house as they have so much to offer the world. To the students living with disabilities, Sosiba said anything is possible with the right mindset.

Her mother, Thulisile Sosibo (56) was very proud of her daughter for succeeding against all odds. She hopes that her daughter will now be able to get a job after this qualification and be able to gain financial independence.

Pictured: Thandiwe Sosiba at her graduation ceremony.

Simangele Zuma