Sithabile realised her dreams because of Unisa

Sithabile Ndlovu graduated from Unisa at the Durban Exhibition Centre on 15  October 2024 with a Master’s Degree in Consumer Science. The 29-year-old is originally from the kwaMaqumbi (Maphumulo) rural community and comes from a family of seven with four siblings. Her parents value education and always motivate them to study regardless of financial constraints. 

Sithabile Ndlovu

Ndlovu completed matric at Isibanisezwe High School in 2012 and started her undergraduate diploma in 2015 and B-Tech Degree in 2018, both in Consumer Science: Food and Nutrition. It has always been her dream to complete a Master's Degree in Consumer Science. Being an intern at the University of Zululand's Consumer Science Department in 2020 inspired her to study towards a master's degree as she discovered that she is passionate about food, nutrition and food labelling. 

We asked her if she plans to further her studies. "I feel ecstatic that I have completed this qualification and motivated to further my studies,” she said. ”I learned that perseverance's rewards are good results. I have learned that balancing family, work and studies is quite manageable if you dedicate yourself to achieving a qualification". 

It was quite challenging at first but with time it eventually got better with the help of her supervisor, Professor Elizabeth Kempen, and the master's and doctoral training that Unisa provided. There were times when Ndlovu felt like quitting, but her family stood by her through those hardships. This qualification has opened the doors for her as she was appointed as a temporary lecturer at the University of Zululand, which has broadened her knowledge and critical thinking in terms of research and the food industry. 

The transition from a bachelor's to a master's degree was challenging because the standard of research is quite different; however, she attended workshops and consulted people who have already been through this journey. Ndlovu has this advice for people who want to study consumer science: "I would say they must go for it as  the sky is the limit. Through their academic journey they must show dedication and resilience. This qualification is broad and there are many job opportunities."

Ndlovu believes that her current position as a temporary lecturer at the University of Zululand will take her to greater heights. 

* By Sakhile Mtshali, Communication and Marketing Officer, KwaZulu-Natal Region