Nkamba’s academic achievements at UMP are particularly noteworthy. He was part of the first cohort to obtain a Bachelor of Commerce Degree, BCom Honours in Economics, and a Master of Commerce in Economics at the university.
“This graduation is a significant milestone signifying my personal growth, hard work, and perseverance in perfecting my craft. I get to celebrate with the family who supported me throughout the journey. It is a joyous finish line; it also represents the keys to a new journey in my career within economics and the financial sector.”
Currently working at the Development Bank of Southern Africa, Nkamba is poised to make significant contributions to the financial sector. He mentions that the University of Mpumalanga provided a supportive environment and diverse community and played a pivotal role in shaping his academic and professional path.
“The University of Mpumalanga is a place that I will never forget and always keep close to my heart. All my hard work culminated in incredible events full of the best emotions. My journey at UMP was incredible. Having joined the University in 2018, I grew alongside it as new buildings and infrastructure went up. The environment was filled with the kindest people, from students to staff,” he recalls.
“I got to meet, befriend, and work with people from many different cultures and countries. The courses I took tested and challenged me, and working with lecturers with vastly different teaching styles and receiving constructive criticism during colloquiums helped shape and grow me into the person I am today.”
The Covid-19 pandemic posed significant challenges during his studies, especially during his Honours degree in 2021. The shift to remote and virtual learning was a daunting transition.
“I had to navigate the difficulties of studying from home, dealing with connectivity issues, minimal chances for interaction, and writing exams on a faulty laptop battery during load shedding,” he explained.
His excellence in academics also earned him a spot as a Top 10 finalist in the Nedbank and Old Mutual budget speech competition. Contemplating his time at UMP, Nkamba described his experience as life-changing.
"Learning about key problems affecting the country, such as unemployment, inequality, and inflation, was incredibly engaging, and it got me to where I am today"
Nkamba believes graduating with a Master's Degree is an achievement he holds in high regard since economics helps students understand how the world around them operates.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.