43-year-old Blind Man Who Worked as a Teacher to Pay School Fees Finally Graduates, Wins Best Student Award

Despite being blind and working as a teacher to fund his education, William Mapfumo graduated with honors from Zimbabwe Open University as the best student in his class, attributing his success to perseverance and his wife’s support.

William Mapfumo, a 43-year-old blind man from Masvingo, Zimbabwe, has graduated with honors from Zimbabwe Open University, earning the distinction of being the best graduating student in his class despite significant challenges.

Mapfumo, who worked as a teacher to fund his education, completed a bachelor’s degree in English and Communication Studies, standing out as the only blind student among 2,119 graduates.

Despite receiving learning materials in print rather than Braille, he excelled academically and earned top honors in his class, demonstrating remarkable perseverance.

Mapfumo began his educational journey by attaining seven Ordinary Level subjects at Kapota School for the Blind, followed by 10 points at Advanced Level from Pakame High School in Zimbabwe. After earning a diploma in education, he secured a teaching job but continued to pursue further education, ultimately enrolling for his bachelor’s degree.

He credits his success to the unwavering support of his wife, Finance Makota, who assisted by reading aloud his notes, recording them, and converting them into Braille for his studies. She also helped him with transportation, enabling him to participate in discussions and write exams, despite the added challenges of his disability.

Mapfumo expressed deep gratitude for his wife’s dedication, noting that she transcribed his Braille assignments into print for his lecturers and played a crucial role in his academic achievements. He acknowledged the financial strain of paying his fees without external assistance, while also balancing work, university studies, and family responsibilities, including caring for his four school-going children.

He emphasized that his achievement was not easy and required double the effort compared to his able-bodied classmates. Mapfumo encouraged others with disabilities, stating that with determination and hard work, they too can accomplish great things.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, SCHOLARSHIP REGION