LIMPOPO – For Aaron Mamphwe, walking to the podium at the Nazarene Church Hall in Thohoyandou on Saturday was no small feat.

Living with difficulty walking and speaking clearly, the 34-year-old has spent years relearning basic movement – first with the help of his grandmother’s makeshift training sticks, later with a wheelchair, and now with walking rails.

On Saturday, he added a new milestone: a one-year certificate in end-user computing (NQF Level 3).

Mamphwe was among 52 graduates who completed skills training in fields including end-user computing, carpentry and plumbing.

A long road to this milestone

He attended Tshilidzini Special School at age 10 for training to help him walk and speak, though he could not complete the programme.

His grandmother later continued that work at home, and he went on to receive physiotherapy at Tshilidzini Hospital.

Mamphwe has also been pursuing a music career since 2014, though he has yet to record a song due to a lack of support despite several promises of assistance.

“Disability does not mean inability”

Guest speaker and PhD graduate Dr Aubrey Mokwevho urged parents not to hide children born with disabilities, saying disability does not mean inability. He said Mamphwe’s achievement should inspire others.

“To our graduates, congratulations. Each of you has worked hard to reach this milestone. Today, your success reminds us that skills development is one of the most powerful tools for changing lives and building a better South Africa. The qualifications you have earned are not merely certificates; they are tools that can transform lives,” he said.

Addressing graduates in information technology and end-user computing, Mokwevho said digital skills are increasingly in demand across businesses, government departments, schools and hospitals, adding that skilled artisans and technology professionals contribute directly to community development and economic growth.

“A place of dignity, second chances and hope”

Graduate Thinamaano Ndou thanked the academy for giving students from different backgrounds an opportunity to learn and grow.

“Some of us had never touched a computer before. But Kundie Skills Academy welcomed us with open doors and open hearts.

“You taught us more than computer skills. You taught us discipline, responsibility and that we are capable. You turned a classroom into a place of dignity, second chances and hope,” Ndou said.