Family pins hopes on free education

In two years, her fourth of five daughters will also be going to varsity

A PIETERMARITZBURG mother is anxious to find out whether President Jacob Zuma’s free education announcement will ease the financial burden on her and her family, as her third daughter readies to go to university.

Melta Mkhize’s 17-yearold daughter Zama Mkhize achieved six distinctions, confirming her place at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

The Pietermaritzburg Girls’ High School pupil will join older sisters Thembeka, going into her third year of genetics and biochemistry, and Minenhle, a fourth-year electrical engineering student.

“Even though my husband works on contract, and I am a teacher, my daughters do not qualify for NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme). So we pay their fees cash,” said Melta.

In two years, her fourth of five daughters, Sbahlesonke, will also be going to varsity.

“It’s really challenging raising girls because you want to protect them yet teach them independence. I think education is one way I can give them their independence and we do all we can to make sacrifices for their education.”

Realising the value of education, Zama, whose marks were “not bad” throughout school, pulled up her socks when her Grade 9 report showed her that she was not living up to her full potential.

“I focused on my studies and worked hard to achieve good marks so that I can have as many options and opportunities as possible,” she said.

Zama has chosen to study hydrology after witnessing the devastating impact of the recent drought.

“I knew I wanted to study something where I would be involved in improving water availability and quality.”

She chose the university’s Pietermaritzburg campus so she could remain living at home while studying.

“I don’t see how I could cope with university without my family, I know I can count on their support,” she said.

Zama credits her family for her achievement, and working hard to give her the opportunities she has had in her life so far.

“As children, we know things are not 100% financially sound, but our parents make life so seamless we don’t notice. I think it is actually by God’s grace that they have the strength to do all they do for us and I’m happy to make them proud,” she said.