Unisa degree allowed Dlamini opportunity to advance career in South Korea

Unisa alumna, Sinqobile Gabisile Dlamini from Durban, Umlazi, recently published a TikTok video which attracted over a million viewers. In typical TikTok style, Dlamini used a hilarious sound to share her achievement as a Unisa graduate and landing a teaching job in South Korea. Teaching is a passion that runs in her family. Dlamini was inspired by her mother, Museni Priscilla Dlamini, who graduated at the age of 42 from Unisa and is now a Geography teacher at eNaleni High School. “The passion for education, empowerment and nurturing runs in the family,” she explains.

Sinqobile Gabisile Dlamini

Following in her mother’s footsteps both to become a teacher and study at the institution, Dlamini says: “Unisa was my university of choice because as an Open Distance eLearning (ODeL) institution, it allows the flexibility to complete coursework at your pace and prioritise your career, family and other responsibilities.”  

Studying at Unisa has allowed many, regardless of origin, an opportunity to have equal access to education that suits their interests and aspirations without having to be physically present in the traditional classroom. However, Dlamini expressed that for peers who did not know ODeL institutions, it often appeared that they did not have the same credit as conventional institutions.

Halalisani Sibusiso Dlamini (Father), Sinqobile Gabisile Dlamini and Museni Priscilla Dlamini (Mother)

The criticism, however, was shortlived as Dlamini has now become a role model to many students from Unisa and conventional universities who wish to teach abroad. “I took it upon myself to change the narrative about this institution. My Unisa degree and South African passport allow me to travel around the world and explore different countries and the diversity of cultures while advancing my career.”

In 2022, Dlamini relocated to Vietnam to teach English as a Second Language (ESL). Now based in South Korea, she uses her social media influence to educate, inform and empower South African youth. She explains: “I am actively sharing information to teach abroad through my social media channels.” Dlamini dreams of leading a professional/registered consultation agency where she can offer services to help others. Several people have also landed teaching jobs in South Korea through her intervention. “I would like this initiative to grow and reach more graduates.”

A faithful steward of the university’s mission to serve humanity, Dlamini concludes: “I am so proud to be part of the Unisa alumni, and I shall keep raising our flag higher and higher.”

#Unisa150

*By Tshimagadzo Mphaphuli, Acting Editor: Internal Communications, Department of Institutional Advancement