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Despite a devastating childhood which was plagued by multiple counts of sexual abuse and an unstable home environment, 25-year-old Andiswa Lugomo has fought her way to obtaining her first tertiary qualification from WSU.
Lugomo was born and raised in Port St Johns where she found herself lacking her parents’ affection and protection after she and her siblings were abandoned by their mother.
At a very young age, she became prone to sexual abuse by several males, leaving her feeling the worst kind of being alone. In early 2013, she was taken into Mzomtsha Child and Youth Care Centre, a move which changed the course of her life forever, however she fought for survival..
Today 7 June 2022, she became one of thousands of WSU students who graduated at the institution’s Graduation ceremonies, obtaining her National Diploma in Office Management and Technology.
“As I grew older, I moved in and out of relatives' homes until I was able to live with people who would later become my family. This was when I discovered that my mother had abandoned me with my other siblings, sad part, I had no idea that I had siblings.", she said.
Lugomo enrolled at Walter Sisulu University's Butterworth Campus in 2018 and began counselling sessions with the university clinic's student counsellor, where she was received with open arms.
Throughout her studies, Lugomo asserts that the therapy unit has been supportive, restoring dignity and value to her life.
"I am grateful for the help I received from Mzomtsha Child and Youth Care Centre and Walter Sisulu University, despite the hurdles. Due to all I've gone through as a full-time student, it was sometimes difficult to keep up with my academics. WSU, on the other hand, has provided invaluable assistance in the form of tutors. The Counselling Unit, among other things, made me realise how valuable I am in life and that I will succeed no matter what. As my studies advanced, this became apparent," she shared.
It was these, and other reasons, that made her opt for Walter Sisulu University.
"WSU was my top pick because you don't have to pay a registration fee if you have applied for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. In 2021, I joined the Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) Program and became an Information Administration tutor, which has allowed me to mature and realise my full potential. Among other things, I learned resilience, hard effort, and aiming for achievement. As a result, I was nominated as the Best PAL Leader for 2021,” Lugomo added with a smile.
Lugomo is excited to begin her professional life and further her studies now that she has graduated.
“My dream is to hold a PhD under my belt. I aspire to be an Administrative Specialist/Associate because I am good at keeping people organised and on track to accomplish the organisation's goals," she added.
Lugomo had this advice for students who are facing difficult situations and are unsure about completing their studies: “A victim mentality won't get you anywhere. Great things will only happen if you get up and fight for your life. Somebody is already on the lookout, willing and able to help, but you must meet them midway. To be an orphan is not a limitation, however, it does mean that you have just yourself to rely on. Don't let your circumstances define you, instead, let your tomorrow define you," she advised.
By Sibabalwe Kela
