Two more young students, Lerato Sidiela (21) and Sandra Munzhelele (23) from Musina, successfully completed their tertiary qualifications from the University of Limpopo after being funded by the municipality’s Mayoral Bursary Scheme.

Sediela completed a BComm (Accounting) degree and Munzhelele a BSc (Community Water Services).

One of the conditions of the Mayoral Bursary Scheme is that, upon completion of studies, graduates sign contracts with the municipality and serve at respective departments for a defined period of time. Sidiela has been placed in the finance department and Munzhelele is serving in the technical services department.

This brings the total number of graduates to five after Cynthia Munzhelele, Matodzi Tshengedzo and Rosina Chale completed their studies last year. The trio are products of the University of Venda and they are currently working in different units within the municipality.

The mayor of Musina, Cllr Mihloti Muhlope, congratulated Sidiela and Munzhelele on their academic achievements. “The two young ladies have made the municipality proud. We pride ourselves on taking the importance of education very seriously. These graduates are living proof of our seriousness to empower young people."

The two graduates could not contain their joy during their first day of placement at the municipality. “I am very happy to be part of the big family here at Musina Municipality. Words alone cannot express my inner feelings. With the knowledge I gained from my studies, I am ready to take Musina Municipality to the next level.” said Sediela.

Munzhelele encouraged learners from disadvantaged backgrounds to study hard because there are many bursary opportunities out there. “I would like to send my heartfelt gratitude to the municipality for financing my studies.  I have no doubt that my achievement will encourage other learners from indigent families to work hard in realizing their educational dreams.”