College of Law

Defying visual impairment to achieve academic triumph

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Despite the significant challenge of living with a disability, Esona Marepula successfully navigated his academic journey with support from Unisa's Advocacy and Resource Centre for Students with Disabilities (ARCSWiD) division and obtained a Bachelor of Laws degree.

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Proud Law graduate Esona Marepula

Marepula's journey is a true testament to resilience. He grew up in the rural landscape of Upper Lahlangubo near Whittlesea in the Eastern Cape. His childhood was marked by both joy and profound challenges. At the tender age of four, Marepula suffered the loss of his mother. He later had a life-altering accident that significantly damaged his eyesight. Despite being diagnosed with the rare and incurable condition of retinitis pigmentosa, Marepula defied the odds, recently graduating and proving that nothing can hold him back.   

Promoting diversity, equity and inclusivity

During the spring graduations, Marepula recounted how his confidence had waned as a teenager when doctors informed him that his vision was progressively deteriorating and that he would eventually go blind. Reflecting on his academic journey at Unisa, where he initially completed a Higher Certificate in Law, Marepula emphasised the restoration of hope upon submitting a Special Assistance Form stipulating his needs for tailored support services to facilitate his academic pursuits at Unisa.

Expressing gratitude for being able to complete his second qualification with Unisa, a Bachelor of Laws degree, Marepula acknowledged Unisa's commitment to embracing diversity and promoting equity and inclusivity, underscoring the efficacy of ARCSWiD in providing exemplary services for Unisa students with disabilities.

Overcoming challenges

Marepula shared that although pursuing goals while living with a disability is never easy, he had a seamless experience at Unisa. He highlighted the provision of tailored assistive devices upon disclosing the extent of his visual impairment, which enabled him to receive all study materials in enlarged print format. The university also provided a private invigilator during venue-based examinations. Additionally, Marepula expressed profound gratitude for the inclusive atmosphere facilitated by Unisa staff during the graduation ceremony, ensuring a positive experience. His message for students is that Unisa has a supportive community that caters to the needs of all individuals.

Endless possibilities

Through education, Marepula has found renewed confidence and empowerment. He aspires to pursue a Master of Laws degree at Unisa in the near future and is currently focused on a non-profit organisation he founded, dedicated to raising awareness about disability rights. Moreover, he envisions establishing a foundation that provides financial support to students living with disabilities.

* By Ayanda Mdunge, Communication and Marketing Intern, Unisa Eastern Cape Region, with input from ChatGPT

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Publish date: 2024/11/26

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