A Centurion Computing graduate has secured a direct pathway into a Master’s degree in Cyber Security in Australia after an academic journey shaped by strong performance and unexpected global opportunities.
Tumelo Mabetwa, a 2025 graduate of the IIE Bachelor of Computer and Information Science in Application Development (BCAD) at Emeris, will begin his postgraduate studies at The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University in July.
Mabetwa completed his undergraduate degree with distinction. His performance allowed him to bypass the traditional honours route and move directly into a master’s programme focused on cyber security.
Reflecting on his schooling years to Rekord, he described a period of uncertainty and transition: “I had to make a call between becoming a professional basketball player or furthering my studies. I discussed this with my parents and they helped me make a sound decision.”
From an early stage, his interests began shifting toward technology, ultimately shaping his academic direction and career goals.
He now aims to become a software engineer specialising in cyber security, a field he says he has long found compelling due to its focus on protecting systems and data.
Mabetwa also reflected on how popular culture influenced his interest in the discipline.
“It has everything to do with me watching a TV show, Mr Robot. This show got me interested in what was happening in Silicon Valley. And of course, safety has become so crucial in the age of AI.”
His academic journey was marked by support from lecturers and engagement in practical, industry-aligned work. He credited his success to both effort and mentorship during his studies, particularly in applied computing and development.
As he considered postgraduate options, his plans shifted from staying in South Africa to exploring international opportunities.
He described a period of uncertainty before committing to applications abroad and added that perseverance and timing played a key role in his eventual acceptance.
“I had faith that my application would work. I always feel I do my paperwork and pray. Then one morning at 03:00, while I was building an application, I received my acceptance letter from an Australian university along with a sponsorship. Now it is all systems go for July 12 to head out to Melbourne.”
He also noted that his undergraduate work helped prepare him for international applications, particularly through project experience and module outcomes in application development.
Mabetwa said his studies involved both technical learning and practical exposure.
“The development of applications all started with writing the application and developing an app for a chauffeur service.”
He also emphasised the importance of responsibility when handling information systems: “When handling personal data, you need to be sensitive.”
During his time at university, he worked closely with academic staff who guided his development in computing and software engineering principles. He specifically acknowledged the contribution of lecturers who supported his academic growth and technical understanding.
He explained that the decision to specialise in cyber security was deliberate and aligned with his long-term goals in the technology sector. His studies will focus on advanced topics in system protection, digital infrastructure, and secure software design.
Tumelo Mabetwa Photo: Elize Parker
Support from his family also played a role in his decision-making process, particularly during the application stage, when he was encouraged to consider opportunities outside South Africa. He has also received a bursary to support his studies abroad.
“We all need to have a growing commitment to cyber security in an increasingly digital world.”
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