Dr Rosa Modiba held a graduation party in Kauletsi on Saturday, 28 September 2024, to officially celebrate her academic achievements with her community. On 06 May 2024, she attained her NQF level 10 qualification, which is the highest NQF level in South Africa. She graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Learner support, Guidance and Counselling and the title of her thesis was: Life Orientation teacher’s support of Grade 12 learners in transitioning to tertiary education, conferred by the University of Pretoria.
As a ‘daughter of the soil’, Dr. Modiba saw it fit to celebrate this milestone at her homestead, infront of former primary, secondary and tertiary school classmates. Her former classmates at Radibaki primary and Radinong secondary schools recalled how she was a focused learner who always obtained position 1.
In May, Ntshebele wrote about her inspirational journey since she matriculated in 2003 and went to the University of Limpopo the following year, to pursue a career in Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Public Administration, which she completed in record time.
The graduation celebration was graced by other academics who are her colleagues, acquaintances and academic Supervisors. Jane Ngoepe, a friend and former high school mate, Clara Sepaela, whom Modiba met at UL, mentees from Orbit Tvet College(who presented her with a framed picture), friend and colleague Dr. Khido Ramadie, other colleagues Dr. Nothile Kunene as well as Professor Mncube(who travelled all the way from KwaZulu-Natal) Dr. Jan Khumalo, who was the motivational speaker, shared their respective and lived experiences with her, while her PhD Supervisor Professor Irma’s message was delivered via a recorded video.
Professor Irma intimated that it was an honour and a privilege to act as Modiba’s supervisor. “You did your doctoral degree on a theme that is so important in the South African landscape. For years to come many students and researchers in education will benefit from the exceptional scholarship you displayed as they seek to transition between schooling and university life. Your doctoral degree is an example of excellence in doctoral studies for future students in education and other disciplines. You did your doctoral work in an international project, with European partners and constantly, they were so impressed with the quality of the work, not only in the research side but in the way it kept the audience captivated I commend you not only for the depth and excellence in your intellectual scholarship but also for the wonderful leadership you displayed throughout your doctoral journey”, she said.
As the keynote speaker, Dr. Jan Khumalo, said it was necessary to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that brought graduates to Kauletsi on the day. “Today we celebrate not just a milestone but the countless hours of hard work, the challenges faced, and the growth you have experienced. Embrace challenges, encourage graduates to see challenges as opportunities for growth. Success is not defined by a paycheck but by the passion you bring to your work and the impact you have on others. Find your purpose and let that drive you forward. Your education does not stop here. Keep learning, stay curious and never be afraid to ask questions. Growth is a lifelong journey. Celebrations can spark motivation. When people experience the joy and recognition that comes from achieving something, they are often inspired to aim higher and push themselves further in future endeavours”, he said.
Speaking to all who attended the graduation celebration, Dr. Modiba said it was concerning that young people, who could have been inspired by such a celebration, did not attend in numbers even though an invitation was made. “Young people must find education attractive, have interest in it and pursue it.” She said her journey had hurdles and one of her key strengths is natural hard work. “If you asked me, how did I make it, I would say the one thing that God gave me is natural hard work. I am a natural hard worker, there is this tiny voice from within, that keeps me positive and going for success. If I feel I can do something, I commit to be on a mission to accomplish it. I would also like to thank my family, that includes my late father, who supported my education with the little he had”, she said. Doctor Modiba added that creating a habit for what a person does, positive self-talk and self-belief are a big source of self-encouragement people must apply to forge ahead.