Gauteng Region salutes staff capped at the 2024 Unisa autumn graduations

It is with immense pride and joy that the Gauteng Region announces the academic success of the following colleagues: Kgomotso Nyamakazi, Hlony Rakhomo, Nomaswazi Twala, and Thabile Nkosi and Dr Erin Naude. Their accomplishments highlight their unwavering commitment to academic excellence and professional development. Let's delve into their inspiring journeys and learn more about their significant milestones.

From left: Kgomotso Nyamakazi, Administrative Officer at the Ekurhuleni Regional Service Centre, Hlony Rakhomo, a Tutorial Officer at the Ekurhuleni Regional Service Centre, and Nomaswazi Twala, an Administrative Officer at the Ekurhuleni Regional Service Centre

Kgomotso Nyamakazi was awarded a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (cum laude), This Administrative Officer at the Ekurhuleni Regional Service Centre (Gauteng Region) was born and raised on the East Rand, in Benoni. She pursued her qualification to gain deeper psychological insights into learners' diverse needs and enhance her chances of acceptance into a master's programme in Educational Psychology.

Despite balancing work, motherhood, and studies, she passed cum laude, thanks to supportive managers and her resilient spirit. This achievement symbolises her commitment, dedication, perseverance, and ability to overcome challenges. It has also enhanced her qualifications, teaching skills, and professional network, allowing her to better support the diverse needs of learners. She plans to enrol in a master's programme and actively contribute to university research.

Hlony Rakhomo was awarded a BCom Honours in Business Management. This Tutorial Officer at the Ekurhuleni Regional Service Centre (Gauteng Region) is originally from Qwaqwa, Free State. He aimed to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for career advancement. He faced challenges balancing coursework, assignments, and extramural activities, including participating in the Absa Cape Epic Mountain Bike race and the Comrades Marathon. These achievements motivated him to always go the extra mile and be proud of his accomplishments. Professionally, it has enhanced his confidence and management qualifications.

Thabile Nkosi

Nomaswazi Twala was awarded a BCom Honours in Business Management. This Administrative Officer at the Ekurhuleni Regional Service Centre (Gauteng Region) resides in Crystal Park, Benoni. She pursued her qualification to augment her professional capabilities and gain proficiency in management, productivity, and research. Balancing education with professional and personal commitments was challenging, but she found immense satisfaction in acquiring new knowledge. This achievement represents a significant step in her personal and professional development. She has acquired valuable competencies that will contribute to her future goals and plans to pursue a master's degree to deepen her knowledge in the same field.

Thabile Nkosi was awarded a Bachelor of Education (BEd). This Security Officer at the Gauteng Region’s Protection Services was born and raised in Mpumalanga, in a small village called Driekoppies (Nkomazi). She pursued this qualification to gain a deeper understanding of learners and help them achieve their full potential by addressing the psychological factors that influence learning and behaviour. Balancing her work in Protection Services for 12 hours a day, motherhood, and studying was challenging. At times, she felt overwhelmed and considered quitting. However, remembering her motivations and the support from her mother and colleagues helped her persevere. She often woke up early to work on assignments, and her commitment paid off when she completed her degree. This achievement symbolizes her dedication and ability to overcome challenges. It has enhanced her teaching skills and professional network, enabling her to better support learners. She plans to enrol for an honours degree programme to further her education.

Dr Erin Naude, Deputy Director, Academic and Technology Support

The highlight of this period is Dr Erin Naude's achievement. She recently earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Management Studies, specialising in Business Management at the College of Economic and Management Sciences. This marks a significant milestone in her career, showcasing her dedication to academic excellence and professional development. As the Deputy Director of the Gauteng Region, Naude epitomises the region's commitment to producing PhDs to support the university's research agenda and other key areas. Her journey is a testament to the spirit of perseverance and a beacon of inspiration for all aspiring scholars.

Moipone Masalesa, Regional Director of the Gauteng Region, shares heartfelt congratulations: "We are incredibly proud of Kgomotso Nyamakazi, Hlony Rakhomo, Nomaswazi Twala, and Dr Naude for their outstanding academic achievements. Their dedication and hard work exemplify the spirit of excellence we strive for in the Gauteng Region. Their contributions significantly advance our research agenda and enhance the quality of education and professional development within our institution. Congratulations to all!"

* By Thembeka Ntuli-Mpapama, Manager: Communication and Marketing, Unisa Gauteng Region