For Andries Stefanus du Toit, graduating at the age of 56 was about far more than receiving another qualification.
It was the fulfilment of a personal goal, a commitment to lifelong learning and a reminder that it is never too late to grow, adapt and embrace new challenges.
Du Toit was among the graduates who crossed the stage during the Vaal University of Technology’s Spring Graduation ceremonies on September 14.
He graduated with a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education under the Faculty of Human Sciences, marking an important milestone in a journey driven by both personal and professional development.
Unlike many graduates in the programme, his path to the qualification was shaped by an academic background outside of education.
Having completed his first degree in Theology, Du Toit found himself working in the higher education environment and recognised the value of gaining a deeper understanding of teaching, learning and student development.
“I have obtained my first degree, but it was not in education, and I decided to stay in the education department,” he said.
Rather than starting a completely new qualification from scratch, he chose a route that would allow him to build on his experience while equipping him with the knowledge needed to support students and understand the challenges they face throughout their academic journeys.
For Du Toit, the qualification was never simply about adding another credential to his name. It was about strengthening his ability to contribute meaningfully to the higher education sector and to the success of the students he serves.
Achieving that goal, however, required significant sacrifice. Balancing studies with family responsibilities was often challenging, and there were times when careful planning and discipline became just as important as academic ability.
“It was very, very difficult. It did take a lot of perseverance,” he said.
To navigate the demands of postgraduate study, du Toit relied on meticulous planning and self-discipline.
He learned the importance of managing his time effectively, meeting deadlines well in advance and avoiding the pressure of last-minute preparation.
“I had to plan very diligently to make sure that I meet my deadlines and also not do things at the last minute, but plan,” he said.
Despite the challenges, he chooses not to focus on the obstacles. Instead, he reflects on the journey through the lens of one simple but powerful lesson: perseverance.
When asked what advice he would offer to anyone pursuing their studies, regardless of age or circumstance, his response was immediate “Persevere.”
Expanding on that message, he added: “It does not make a difference how difficult it gets or how hard it is, persevere.”
His words carry particular weight for those who may believe that returning to study later in life is impossible.
Du Toit’s achievement demonstrates that academic growth is not confined to a particular age or stage of life.
With commitment, proper planning and determination, new opportunities for learning remain within reach.
As VUT celebrates its Spring Graduations, Mr Du Toit’s story serves as a powerful reminder that education is a lifelong journey.
