Despite facing a life-changing accident, Unarine Ndou, a 22-year-old from Ha-Mutsha, Venda, graduated with distinction from the University of Johannesburg, driven by his family’s encouragement and his commitment to academic excellence.
Unarine Ndou, a 22-year-old from the small village of Ha-Mutsha, Venda, recently graduated with distinction from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) despite facing a life-altering accident.
Born on March 26, 2002, Ndou’s early years were spent with his paternal grandmother, who significantly influenced his understanding of positive human interaction. After completing his foundational education, he moved in with his aunt and graduated from primary school in another village.
Ndou’s family, while not having a traditional educational background, highly valued education. His aunt frequently reminded him that he was her “hope,” while his late father would often inquire about his academic progress, asking, “Vho-Ndou vho phasa?” (translated to “Mr. Ndou, did you pass?”). These words of encouragement drove Ndou to strive for academic excellence. “Saying no would have been embarrassing, driving me to work harder,” Ndou recalls.
Upon completing matric, Ndou was accepted into UJ as an Orange Carpet candidate in 2020, a program that recognizes top students with benefits such as guaranteed program placement and scholarships. He enrolled in the Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching, the only program he applied for. Ndou was inspired by the fictional character “Mr. M” from Athol Fugard’s play My Children! My Africa! and his high school biology teacher’s compassionate teaching style.
Throughout his B.Ed program, Ndou was determined to maintain his high school performance level.
He was mindful of the expectations of those who believed in him. “My dear guide and leader, Dr. Uzwi lezwe Radebe, taught me that youth does not mean immaturity but the power to make choices,” says Ndou. This philosophy motivated him to continue striving for excellence.
In July 2024, Ndou graduated with distinction at UJ’s winter graduation ceremony, a testament to his hard work and determination. However, his journey was not without significant challenges.
Less than five months before completing his qualification, on July 25, 2023, Ndou was involved in a horrific bus accident on Kingsway Road near UJ Auckland Park campus where 77 people were injured, resulting in severe injuries and the loss of his leg.
In the words of a medical practitioner, “There is nothing we can do now.’’ Lying on the cold sidewalk on a frigid morning, covered with shining plastic just minutes after the collision, Ndou thought, “Is this the end of the journey?”After multiple surgeries, Ndou found himself in a new life he had no idea how to live. To stay positive, he decided to smile, which he called the magic word for 29 days in the hospital bed. “The biggest enemy would have been getting stuck in the sympathy and pity from those around me,” he says.
Determined to finish what he started, Ndou resumed attending classes soon after being discharged, attempted all the examinations, and scored well.
Ndou attributes much of his success to his lecturer, Professor Lydia Mavuru, whom he describes as a “woman king” for believing in his potential despite the circumstances.
“Despite a life-threatening accident, Unarine remained resolute in his pursuit of excellence. He never allowed this setback to derail his focus or diminish his drive. Instead, he embraced a positive mindset, believing his survival meant he had a second chance to follow his dreams. Through sheer determination, Mr. Ndou has not only achieved his own goals but also inspired others to pursue their dreams with the same tenacity,” says Prof Mavuru.
“No matter how difficult the road ahead may seem, keep moving forward. Remember that progress, no matter how small, is still progress,” he advises.
He is currently enrolled for a BEd Honours in STEM education and is hoping to continue with a Masters degree the following year.
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