Education is at the heart of the University of South Africa's (Unisa's) mission, and that commitment extends beyond its students. Through its employee education support programme, the university is investing in the people who keep the institution running, giving staff members the opportunity to earn formal qualifications, build new skills and unlock new career opportunities.

The programme reflects Unisa's belief that developing employees is essential to building a stronger institution. Through initiatives such as the Study Assistance Benefits and Skills Development Plan, qualifying staff receive support to further their education while continuing to work.

Over the years, the programme has changed countless lives, with many employees overcoming financial and personal barriers to become graduates and professionals in their chosen fields.

One of them is Forget Shivambu, whose journey from security officer to Financial Administrator demonstrates the transformative power of education.

Forget Shivambu

"I never imagined I would have the opportunity to study further because of financial constraints," Shivambu says.

In 2020, he enrolled for a Higher Certificate in Economic and Management Sciences before progressing to a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management, which he completed in 2024. He is now in his final year of a BCom Honours degree in Financial Management.

For Shivambu, earning these qualifications has transformed both his career and his confidence. Balancing full-time work with academic commitments was demanding, but the university's support made it possible.

"It required discipline, good time management and personal sacrifices," he says. "The flexibility and support from Unisa made it possible for me to stay committed to both my work and my studies."

He believes investing in employee education benefits both staff and the institution: "When employees gain new knowledge and skills, they improve their performance, become more motivated and create opportunities for career growth. It also helps organisations develop talent from within and contributes to long-term success."

Advocate Thomas Chauke has experienced a similarly life-changing journey. After working as a security officer for a private company contracted to Unisa, Chauke joined the university in 2017. Today, he serves as a Student Discipline Officer in the Directorate: Student Assessment Administration, holds a master’s degree and is pursuing a Doctor of Laws (LLD).

Advocate Thomas Chauke

Before joining Unisa, paying university fees had been a constant struggle. "Joining Unisa not only eased my financial burden, but it also changed the way I viewed life," he says. "It gave me the courage to challenge injustice, defend my rights and stand up for my colleagues."

He believes the opportunity to study reshaped his future, saying, "If Unisa had not given me the opportunity and paid for my studies, I would not have graduated with my master’s degree or be pursuing my LLD today."

Although balancing work and study was challenging, Chauke credits his family, colleagues, supervisors and the university for helping him succeed.

"While studying, you may lose touch with family and friends who think you're avoiding them," he says. "That's why having a strong support system is so important."

His advice to fellow employees is simple: "It is never too late to take the first step. Believe in yourself, stay focused and eliminate distractions that take you away from your goals."

Valentine Johanna Matlala's story is another powerful example of determination and perseverance.

Valentine Johanna Matlala

After putting aside her dream of becoming a professional teacher to support her family, Matlala joined Unisa in 2013 as a cleaner. Encouraged by her supervisors, she decided to return to her studies.

She completed a Higher Certificate before enrolling for a Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase in 2020. Today, she proudly stands as the first graduate in her family.

Balancing work, family responsibilities and university studies was far from easy. "I often felt overwhelmed and came close to giving up on my degree," she recalls. But the support she received from Unisa kept her moving forward.

"Before joining the programme, I never believed I could become a graduate because of my family's background," she says. "The support I received from Unisa gave me the confidence to believe that my dreams were achievable."

These stories reflect more than individual success. They demonstrate how investing in employees creates opportunities for personal growth while strengthening the university's own capacity.

For staff members considering taking the next step in their education, the journeys recounted here are proof that it is possible to balance work, study and family commitments with determination and the right support.

As Unisa continues to champion lifelong learning, its employee education support programme remains a powerful reminder that the pursuit of knowledge has the ability to transform lives, careers and communities.

* By Moleboheng Mpafa, Journalist Intern, Department of Institutional Advancement