Five outgoing Limpopo Regional Student Representative Council (RSRC) members recently obtained their qualifications, an indication that they led by example.

Reneilwe Makhura (Speaker, Regional Student Parliament), Lesedi Nkoana (Treasurer) and Masefako Tsebe (Deputy Chairperson) all received Bachelor of Laws degrees (LLB) at the 2026 Unisa Polokwane Graduations held at the Ranch Hotel, while Eben Phala (Education and Training Officer) received a Bachelor of Commerce (B Com) cum laude. Katlego Thobakgale (Sports and Culture Officer) received an Advanced Diploma in Animal Health.

According to Makhura, obtaining the LLB qualification has brought a proud moment and exciting milestone for her. "It reflects years of hard work, perseverance and commitment to achieving my goals. I am grateful for the journey and excited about the future. To continue growing academically and professionally," she says. Makhura, from Polokwane, has registered for an LLM in Tax Law and is looking forward to developing her knowledge further in the legal field.

Nkwana, from GaPhaudi Village in Moletjie, is grateful to all who stood by her throughout her study journey; it was not easy. "Obtaining my LLB degree is a proud and humbling accomplishment. It took hard work, perseverance and dedication to get here. Balancing demanding academics with student leadership proved my resilience and commitment," she adds. Nkoana is currently registered for a Master of Laws (Human Rights Law) degree.

According to Phala, from Mohlaletse in the Sekhukhune area, achieving his qualification cum laude taught him that success in distance learning is not about convenience, but about discipline, resilience and sustained effort over time," he says. "On a personal level, I aim to continue growing as a disciplined, adaptable and goal-driven individual who can manage responsibility." He is currently registered for an LLB degree.

Tsebe, from Nobody Village in GaMothapo, says studying for the LLB was not easy. She faced obstacles along the way and overcame them. "I am the first one to graduate on my maternal side, so it feels great to break the cycle. We are going to make it. I have opened the road for my family and relatives," she adds. In future, Tsebe intends to enrol for a Master of Laws degree (in Human Rights) and ultimately pursue her doctoral degree studies.

Thobakgale says the qualification feels fulfilling for her: "It reflects the hard work, dedication, and persistence I put in through challenges, deadlines and exams to reach this point. I am proud of this achievement and motivated to continue growing academically and professionally." Thobakgale, from GaThoka Village in the GaMamabolo area, is currently registered for a Postgraduate Diploma in Animal Health.

* By Malose Gilbert Mokwatedi, Communication Manager, Unisa North Eastern Region