For many graduates, crossing the graduation stage represents the culmination of years of hard work. For one proud University of South Africa (UNISA) graduate, it symbolises something even greater—a testament to resilience, perseverance, and an unwavering belief that dreams delayed are never dreams denied.

Born and raised in Mamelodi East, Pretoria, Ms Jane Mathebe is the youngest of six children. Growing up in a family that valued education, she attended Koos Matli Primary School before continuing her secondary education at Rethabile Secondary School, now known as Stanza Bopape High School. From an early age, her passion for learning and education was evident.

"I always loved school and education," she reflects.

Her fascination with Accounting, Economics, and Mathematics began during her high school years. As her interest in commerce grew, choosing the Commerce stream became a natural decision. After matriculating, she pursued bookkeeping studies before registering for a Bachelor of Commerce degree, laying the foundation for a lifelong commitment to personal and professional growth.

Like many students, however, the road to graduation was far from straightforward.

In 2011, while employed in UNISA's Assignment Section through labour brokers, institutional policies prohibited employees in that department from studying at the university. Faced with the difficult decision of choosing between employment and education, she placed her studies on hold.

"I had to halt my studies so I could secure employment and put food on the table," she recalls.

Renewed Determination

Although her academic journey was interrupted, her dream of earning a degree never faded. Years later, she returned to her studies with renewed determination, completing a bridging course that enabled her to enrol for a Bachelor of Commerce in Industrial and Organisational Psychology.

Throughout this journey, the support of mentors proved invaluable.

Interestingly, her greatest sources of encouragement did not come from the field of Economic and Management Sciences but from colleagues and leaders within UNISA's College of Law. These individuals consistently believed in her potential and motivated her to continue pursuing her academic aspirations.

Support and Motivation

Among those who made a lasting impact was the late Professor Basdeo, former Executive Dean of the College of Law, whose encouragement inspired her to complete her qualification. Following in his footsteps, Professor Kole continued to provide unwavering support by approving study leave, offering words of motivation, and ensuring that work responsibilities could be balanced with academic commitments.

"They believed in me even when the journey seemed difficult," she says.

Balancing full-time employment with university studies required discipline, sacrifice, and careful planning.

"I intentionally set aside time for my studies, utilised study leave effectively, and stayed away from anything that would distract me from my goals."

That commitment eventually paid off in the most memorable way imaginable.

"The day of my graduation will always remain the most memorable experience of my life."

On 10 June 2026, years after first embarking on her academic journey, she proudly graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce in Industrial and Organisational Psychology. The achievement represented not only academic success but also the fulfilment of a dream that had survived financial challenges, career demands, and years of postponement.

Today, she continues serving the university, having rejoined the Department of Criminal and Procedural Law in February 2026 under the leadership of Professor Saurombe. Yet graduation is not the final destination.

Driven by a passion for lifelong learning, she is already pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce Honours degree specialising in Industrial and Organisational Psychology.

Sincere gratitude to UNISA

Reflecting on her journey, she expresses sincere gratitude to the University of South Africa for investing in the development of its employees through its Study Assistance Programme.

"I would like to thank my employer, the University of South Africa, for the financial support it provides to staff members through Study Assistance. It made a tremendous difference throughout my studies. The university also supported my Honours studies, while study leave allowed me to prepare adequately for examinations and portfolio submissions."

Her story serves as a powerful reminder that success is not determined by how quickly one reaches the finish line, but by the courage to continue despite setbacks.

To prospective UNISA students, she offers a message filled with hope and determination:

"Persevere, work hard, remain committed and dedicated. Never allow life's challenges to discourage you. Quitting is not an option. When you fall, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep moving forward. Every obstacle is temporary, but the rewards of perseverance will last a lifetime."

Her remarkable journey is proof that with resilience, determination, and the support of those who believe in you, every dream remains within reach—no matter how long the journey may take.

*By Ngwako Mokgotho, Communications and Marketing Specialist, College of Law