Graduate capped 17 years after completing degree

Teboho Joseph Khohlokoane (45) graduated at UCT on 7 June, 17 years after completing a Bachelor of Social Science. Without a degree the only work he could initially find was as a petrol attendant. He later became a cleaner at the Breedevallei Shell Ultra City outside his home town, Worcester.

Q: Why did you study social science?

A: I wanted to become a social worker because I wanted to help people help themselves. Two years into the course I was told that because I stuttered I couldn't be a social worker. I then changed my course to social science.

Q: How did it come about that your debt was paid and the way cleared for you to graduate?

A: About two months ago one of the cashiers at the filling station told the son of Clarence Johnson, a former mayor of the Winelands (District) Municipality, that I was educated. I was mopping the floor at the time. He told his father, who then spoke to someone in the office of the director-general of the department of higher education.

A month later, I got the news that I would graduate. I was very excited about it.

Q: What do you hope to achieve now that you have graduated?

A: I would like to work where I am able to help people, perhaps in development. I'm also planning to do my honours and master's.

Q: What's your message to people who find themselves in the same situation as you?

A: Be patient, persevere, hope and have some faith. You must pray hard.

Q: What are your memories of your life as a student at UCT?

A: It was a great privilege to study here. I was in res at Liesbeeck Gardens. We knew how to party.