During UMP's Academic Excellence Awards ceremony, Ms Sibiya received the Best Advanced Diploma, Postgraduate Diploma and Honours Award for the Bachelor of Arts Honours in Siswati. The awards recognise top-performing students across the university, including first-year and graduating cohorts.
Now a Foundation Phase teacher at Ndlemane Primary School in Nkomazi, Ms Sibiya described her graduation as the fulfilment of a long-held dream.
"Graduation was more than just receiving a qualification; it was the fulfilment of a dream built on resilience, determination and an unwavering passion for education. Graduating Cum Laude and receiving an Academic Excellence Award remind me that success comes through consistency, discipline and determination," she said.
Her academic success reflects years of perseverance. Having struggled academically in her early years, Ms Sibiya credits the encouragement and support of lecturers, including Dr Andries du Plessis, Dr Masalesa and Ms Mkhwanazi Malilensha, for helping her realise her potential.
"I was one of those learners who struggled academically in the early years, but my lecturers never gave up on me. Their guidance shaped my professional development and motivated me to strive for excellence," she said.
While pursuing her studies, Ms Sibiya also built an impressive sporting career. She represented UMP in netball for six years and competed at University Sport South Africa (USSA) tournaments. She later served as captain of the UMP netball team while balancing training, mentoring, tutoring and her academic responsibilities.
"Netball provided a healthy balance to my academic life. It helped me develop leadership skills, build meaningful friendships and represent the university with pride."
Through opportunities provided by UMP, Ms Sibiya also obtained First Aid certification and an umpiring qualification while developing leadership, teamwork, discipline and resilience.
Inspired by the influence teachers have on shaping young minds, Ms Sibiya pursued a career in Foundation Phase Teaching. She believes UMP's strong emphasis on practical teaching experience equipped her with essential skills in lesson planning, classroom management and learner development, preparing her well for the classroom.
"Success is not only about academic achievement. It is also about personal growth, perseverance and making a positive difference in the lives of others," she said.
From overcoming learning challenges to graduating Cum Laude while excelling as a student-athlete, Ms Sibiya's journey demonstrates the rewards of perseverance, hard work and determination.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied. Copyright © UMP.