Being a graduate is not ordinary but having the zeal and the drive to pursue more is exceptional! Sphesihle Thusini, a young graduate from Kwa-Maphumulo, was awarded a Master of Commerce (MCom) in Economics, at North-West University and is currently embarking on a journey to study for a Ph.D. in Public and Development Economics.
It has always been Sphesihle’s dream to graduate from a globally recognised University that has a track record of excellence, in teaching, learning and research. His journey as a student was not always filled with sparkles of ecstasies, it goes without a say that being an emerging scholar comes with sleepless nights, and there are times when the going gets tough, and the wheels of progressive movement get stuck, “but we keep going”. Having support from NWU and his fellow students eased the troubles that would have hindered him from completing his studies. Knowing when to shout for help and where to seek it is a privilege, and NWU ensures easy access to student support services to make students’ lives easy.
During his studies, Sphesihle formed an integral part of the Branch Student Task Team (BSTT) at NWU. It was at that time that he discovered his passion for community, social responsiveness, and ethical care. He was also involved in NPOs such as Umphise Youth Development Programme in KZN and the Puthanang Youth Trust in Soweto and he is currently working as a graduate trainee at National Intellectual Property Management Office.
In 2022, he participated in a Nedbank and Old Mutual budget speech competition. His journey as a postgraduate student at the NWU has equipped him with the necessary resources that gave him the resolve and the confidence to be a contestant. Through his good writing and research skills, he went all the way to the top, obtaining the second runner-up position, and walking away with the prize money, R50 000.
He advises students to never compromise their academics and to never misuse their freedom. His secret to balancing academic and student life is to always set priorities and continuous improvement. “There are a lot of challenges we face as young people. Throughout everything – my eyes were fixed on my goals. A deadline might seem far, but I always made sure to have a good head-start allowing me time to rework and improve my work where needed for better results.”
#MyNWU #DiscoverNWU