Being born without arms was no deterrent for high-achieving UKZN graduate Kgosatsana Sithole.
Ms Sithole, who was born with phocomelia – a rare condition characterised by shortened or missing upper or lower limbs – has achieved an outstanding accomplishment by graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Social Science degree.
The accomplishments of the 23-year-old who was born with missing arms, elicited a standing ovation from fellow graduates, academics, and guests at the UKZN Graduation Ceremony held on Monday.
Ms Sithole was one of the 100 graduates with disabilities who graduated at UKZN’s autumn graduation which concluded last week, and one of 414 who graduated cum laude.
Despite the challenges she has encountered because of her condition, Ms Sithole has consistently refused to see phocomelia as a hindrance, instead choosing to embrace her uniqueness.
“Being the only different one in the class posed its challenges,” she admitted, “but I had to embrace confidence in my uniqueness and remain steadfast in my purpose.”
Throughout her academic journey, she navigated challenges by proactively communicating her limitations to her lecturers at the beginning of each semester.
Her proud mother, Nonkululeko Sithole, was overcome with tears of joy as she watched her daughter graduate. She rushed to embrace her shortly after witnessing the crowning moment.
“Kgosatsana accomplished the seemingly impossible by earning her degree cum laude and in record time. Despite the physical strain on her back – pursuing her studies caused – she remained resolute and focused. Our family is immensely proud of her,” the proud mother said.
Reflecting on her achievement, Ms Sithole who hails from Esikhawini (north of Durban) expressed deep gratitude for the honour bestowed upon her. She acknowledged the invaluable support of her family and credited her faith, emphasising that her success “would not have been possible without her Lord and Saviour.”
Looking to the future, Sithole dreams of delving into film and television studies as she aspires to create African-centric narratives revolving around politics and crime.
