UL student to finally graduate after 18 years

Following a period of 18 years characterised by hardship, 39-year-old Mahlodi Theledi is looking forward to finally take his place among his fellow graduands when the University of Limpopo (UL) hosts its Autumn Graduations next week.
Theledi first enrolled at UL for a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy in 2000 but was unable to complete the course in the stipulated period as result of a series of misfortunes that piled up.
A statement released by Johannes Selepe, acting Senior Publications Practitioner
Marketing and Communication at the institution indicated that, soon after his first enrolment, Theledi’s health began to deteriorate to such an extent that by 2003 he was left with no other option but to drop out.
While he gradually recovered the chances of resuming his studies seemed to be fading as his finances did not add up, a situation that dragged on for nine years.
“As if the distress of ill health and financial constraints were not enough, his return to university in 2012 was hindered by the new integrated curriculum which was foreign to him as the content differed nearly completely from when he first attempted it. While trying hard to adjust, his determination was blemished a year later by the passing on of his elder sister in 2013, adding trauma to his financial dilemmas. However, Theledi said he was thankful to the Department of Health and Social Development and the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority for granting him financial support so that today he can look back and say he made it after 18 years of struggle,” the statement read.
The Ga-Maleboho-born personification of determination reportedly said he was grateful for the support he received from Pharmacy Head of Department, Patrick Demana during the trying times. “I now know what it means when they say perseverance is the mother of success. I will work hard to see myself owning a pharmacy outlet one day,” he reportedly said.
Theledi currently in the employ of Helena Franz Hospital in Senwabarwana as a Pharmacist Intern.

Story: Herbert Rachuene
>>herbert.observer@gmail.com