When Ntshavheni Khangale, a student living with disability, graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree in Polokwane in 2024, he made a commitment to subsequently enrol for a BCom Hons in Financial Modelling. He followed through on that commitment and reaped the rewards.  

Khangale was awarded the honours degree at the recent Unisa Polokwane Autumn Graduations held at the Ranch Hotel. He has also been accepted to study for a Master's degree in Qualitative Management.

The story of Khangale is one of perseverance, support and continuous self-improvement. The life of this father from Nzhelele in the Vhembe region of Limpopo and currently based in Louis Trichardt, offers valuable insights into the realities of accessibility, the importance of community and the transformative power of education.

Whilst his home is wheelchair-friendly and enables him to have independence within his personal environment, Khangale indicates that some facilities in the public and private sectors are not that easily accessible, thus posing challenges for people with disabilities.  

He commends Unisa for continuous improvements in promoting accessibility, demonstrating that the institution is driving and influencing change in how people interact with and embrace people with disabilities.

Beyond being a true example of overcoming adversity, Khangale notes the need for broader societal change, especially in how people with disabilities are perceived.

A former colleague at the Air Force Base Makhado Health Centre advised Khangale to pursue studies in Finance. 

"Dr Rabada asked me what I was busy with in life," says Khangale. "This was after my car accident. I told him that I was not busy with anything. That is where he said I must go back to school and do something. He was specific and told me that I must study something related to finance. When I told him I did not do accounting in high school, he told me I could do it. Then I started to believe in myself."

From there, Khangale never looked back. He subsequently completed his qualifications (the latest being his BCom Hons in Financial Modelling). He discovered a passion for quantitative analysis, especially through modules like Elementary Quantitative Method. His enthusiasm for numbers led him to assist peers and to pursue a deeper interest in quantitative management.

Khangale adds that the strong support system from his family and friends enabled him to thrive:

"My family makes me feel like there is no difference between them and me, and they always want me to push my dreams. The support I get from family and friends is amazing."

Other than his disability, Khangale also experienced health complications during his studies, bringing hardships along his educational path. However, support from supervisors, notably Dr Tlou Kubjana, proved crucial during difficult periods. Says Khangale: "Whenever I experienced mishaps, he was so understanding and gave me a chance to recover, and I really appreciate that because he kept telling me that he believes in me even though sometimes I felt like giving up."

Khangale believes that his achievement will inspire his peers, both within and beyond his workplace, to further their own studies.

Currently employed as a Technical Administrator at Air Force Base Makhado, Khangale’s professional journey began in patient administration, where exposure to financial processes sparked his interest in public finance. He intends to apply for positions within the South African Defence Force that are more relevant to his qualifications. He also aspires to be a part-time lecturer.

Khangale also promotes the spirit of community outreach: each time the Defence Force offers him a new wheelchair, he donates his older one to those in need, thereby enhancing mobility for others.

Read also:

Beating the odds to graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce

* By Matsobane Madisha, Digital Learning Advisor, North Eastern Region