Big dreams for local boffins

COMING from a family of five and being the only boy is tough! Despite this, Sicelo Khumalo (19) of Matamzana Dube High School excelled in his matric final exams and attained seven distinctions in seven subjects.
When Sicelo was in Grade 3 his mother passed away and the following year in Grade 4, he lost his dad too.
‘It was a difficult time for all of us but my eldest sister stepped up to the plate,’ he said.
‘We live with her and she takes care of us all.’
‘My sisters have been the greatest support. I was so excited when I received my results; I worked hard to make my parents proud,’ he said with a reminiscent smile.
Owing to the scarcity of finances, as his eldest sister is the sole provider, Sicelo has not made plans to further his studies.
‘I would love to study Engineering whether it is Chemical, Mining or Electrical, as long as I can continue with Mathematics and Physical Science because they are my favourite things in the world.’
‘I have a curious mind, I love working with numbers and solving problems.’
‘I’m very thankful to my school and my teachers. Hard work, commitment and sacrifice afforded me these results.’
‘I know that the school study camp that was hosted for a week prior to exams was the best help! We literally camped at the school and so did our teachers doing revision and tutoring.’ he said.
Tisand Technical High School
Sbongakonke Mlangeni (18) and Muzikayise Khumalo (18) also performed exceptionally well in their matric final examinations and have hopes of studying further.
Sbongakonke has applied and been accepted at the University of Cape Town for Electrical Engineering and been given a conditional offer for Computer Engineering.
‘UCT wanted my final results before they got back to me about Computer Engineering, but I would be overjoyed if I could register for that course.’ he exclaimed.
‘I am in love with electronics and computers, it just intrigues my mind. I know this would be suited to me as a career because if anything, it would feel more like a hobby than a job.’ he said.
‘I want to go to UCT because I want quality education. I come from a family of five boys and I’m the eldest. My dad works and my mom takes care of our home. Financially it’s not viable for me to enrol at UCT but, I have faith that my dreams will come to pass.’ said Sbongakonke.
Muzikayise was accepted at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology to study Mechanical Engineering.
‘I have always done well in it and I have a genuine interest and passion in being intricate, technical and hands-on.’ he said.
Muzikayise comes from a family of eight children with his father being the sole bread winner and his mother the home builder.
‘Financially, it’s quite difficult for my dad to afford my tuition fees. Nevertheless, I know that somehow I will get my qualifications.’ he said.