FROM SCIENCE TO 16 DISTINCTIONS: GRADUATE CONQUERS UNFAMILIAR ACADEMIC TERRITORY

What began as a step into unfamiliar academic territory ultimately saw 23-year-old Sisanda Mathangana graduated with 16 distinctions and a 74% overall average in a Diploma in Financial Information Systems from iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu.

Born in Mzimkhulu and raised in Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal, Mathangana had come from a Science stream at school with no Accounting background.

Rather than allowing her unfamiliarity with the subject to limit her, she embraced the opportunity to venture into the intersection of finance, business and technology.

“The beginning was challenging because I was entering a field that was completely new to me. I had never studied Accounting before, so I had a lot to learn from the beginning,” she said.

Mathangana said she reminded herself that nobody could know everything and that learning required a willingness to start from the beginning.

Her journey was supported by the department’s Tutorship Programme, which provided academic assistance and mentorship as she navigated challenging course content.

Over time, her confidence grew and so did her academic performance, culminating in 16 distinctions.

“Starting the qualification without an Accounting background and eventually graduating with 16 distinctions and a 74% overall average made me realise that my starting point did not determine my outcome,” said Mathangana.

For Mathangana, the achievement represented more than academic excellence. It demonstrated what could happen when she was willing to step beyond what was familiar and trust her ability to learn.

“It taught me that stepping outside your comfort zone can help you discover abilities you did not know you had,” she said.

Mathangana’s academic achievement has also shaped her outlook on future opportunities. She encouraged students not to allow their previous academic backgrounds to define what they can achieve.

“You may start without the same knowledge or experience as others, but that does not mean you cannot succeed. Be willing to learn, ask for help, stay consistent and believe in your ability to grow,” said Mathangana.

Having completed her diploma, Mathangana plans to continue her academic journey by pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Business Analysis.

By Yanga Ziwele