by Tanya Sylvia Mugwagwa
Nokubonga Msweli, a 3rd-year Bachelor of Pharmacy student at Rhodes University, is a beneficiary of a Clicks Foundation bursary through Rhodes University's Isivivane Fund. Originally from Mandeni in Kwa-Zulu Natal, Nokubonga expressed that her upbringing and background inspired her to choose a STEM-related profession.
"I decided to pursue a degree in Pharmacy as I grew up in a rural area with inadequate access to medicinal care. Seeing elderly people in my community relying on limited medication supplies for their health and well-being helped me see the significance of healthcare professionals in our communities," she said.
Nokubonga is a hardworking young woman who has maintained a solid academic record. "I always strive towards academic excellence," Nokubonga expressed. "I obtained an average of 82% for my Matric results, and I currently have a university academic record of above 65%."
According to Nokubonga, the bursary is a life-changing opportunity, as her parents do not have adequate financial resources to fund her degree. “This opportunity lessens the financial burden on me significantly and allows me to focus on my studies," she said. Furthermore, being awarded this bursary has played a considerable role in getting her closer to her dream of being a pharmacist.
According to Nokubonga, the bursaries, such as the one offered by the Clicks Foundation, enable historically disadvantaged individuals like herself to have access to careers in STEM where women are underrepresented.
"I think it is vital for young women in our generation to be empowered and supported to pursue STEM careers to close the gender gap in these fields", she remarked. "A career in STEM not only provides women with economic security and independence, but it enables them to make invaluable contributions to the world of science and technology."
Nokubonga advises young women wishing to pursue a career in STEM to prioritise their education and take every opportunity to learn and grow. "I truly believe that education is the most powerful tool to enable young girls from underprivileged communities to empower themselves, to fulfil their dreams, and to make a difference in their communities," she said.
Nokubonga is a sterling example of what the ISIVIVANE Fund aims to achieve. Many young women from disadvantaged backgrounds in South Africa still face financial challenges and difficulties that inhibit them from pursuing careers in underrepresented fields in STEM.
We invite any contributions and donations to the campaign that'll assist the University to continue empowering young women to reach their goals. To read more about Rhodes University priority projects, including Isivivane and to make a donation, please click on the link below: