Rorisang Oikantswe Mangole proudly receives his Diploma in Information Technology (IT) after overcoming financial and academic challenges on his journey to graduation. His achievement is a testament to resilience, determination, and perseverance. Mangole is capped by Mr Freddy Mavungu, Deputy Registrar: Academic Administration.

Rorisang Oikantswe Mangole has graduated with a Diploma in Information Technology (IT), bringing to an end a five-year-and-a-semester journey marked by financial and academic challenges.

Originally from Mahikeng in the North-West, Mangole joined the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) Welkom Campus in 2021. However, his journey to graduation took longer than he had anticipated after he repeated his second year in 2022 following the strike, while an outstanding module further added to the delay, extending his time at the university. “It was tough,” said Mangole, holding back his tears as he reflected on the challenges he faced along the way.

His academic struggles were compounded by financial difficulties. Mangole lost his NSFAS funding completely in 2025, following an earlier funding setback in 2023, leaving him to find alternative ways to support himself while continuing with his studies. Determined not to give up, he turned to delivery work for Mr D and Takealot.

The flexibility of the work allowed him to earn an income while keeping up with his academic commitments and covering his everyday expenses. “I needed a way to make some money on the side to help with my everyday necessities, and at that point, delivering was one of the easiest and most flexible ways for me to do that,” he said.

A proud family moment: From left, Lebogang Mangole (brother), Olerato Mangole (sister), Madisanta Mangole (mother), and Rorisang Oikantswe Mangole share a special family moment during CUT’s 2026 Spring Graduation.

Balancing work and academics was not always easy. There were many late nights when Mangole returned from work, exhausted, only to study and complete assignments. At times, the pressure became overwhelming, making him question whether he could continue. Yet, he held on to a dream he had carried for years: graduating alongside his younger sister, Olerato, who also graduated from CUT with a Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase. That dream became a source of motivation, reminding him to keep going even when the journey felt far-fetched.

“I’ve always wanted to wear a graduation regalia and graduate alongside my little sister, Olerato. That dream became a reality when we shared the stage together,” he said.

This journey came with sacrifices. Mangole spent less time with his family, put other goals on hold and had to carefully balance his personal life, studies and work. Yet perseverance was not new to him. Before becoming a delivery driver, he had run a small IT business and transported people through his own ride-hailing service, all while studying.

Looking back, Mangole said he is proud of how far he has come. His graduation stands as a testament to the determination it took to overcome financial setbacks, academic delays and personal sacrifices. Having reached this milestone alongside his sister, he now looks ahead to a future shaped by the same resilience that carried him through his journey.

A dedicated student by day and a delivery driver after hours, balancing academic commitments with work responsibilities.