By Mohau Seleka
With her eyes on excellence, Takalani Emmah Mulaudzi has secured the top spot, shining as a symbol of hard-earned success. Born and raised in Musina, Limpopo Province, Takalani completed her high school studies at Musina Secondary. She developed a strong interest in humanities, particularly Geography, while her home language is Tshivenda. “These subjects shaped my passion for teaching and motivated me to continue my studies,” she says. Today, she is a third-year Education student in the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Limpopo.
Takalani credits her inspiration to her former teachers, especially those who taught her Geography. “They were role models who not only taught content but also demonstrated patience, passion, and the power of education to change lives,” she says.
Her achievements at the University of Limpopo mean a lot to her. “To me, achievement isn’t only about big awards; it also includes small victories, like passing a challenging module or gaining confidence during teaching practice,” she explains. Positive feedback from lecturers encourages her to keep working hard and reminds her that she is on the right path.
“Balancing life at university has been a learning process,” she adds. She manages her time with a study timetable that prioritizes academic responsibilities, ensuring assignments are completed and tests are well-prepared for.
Takalani also believes in the importance of relaxation. “I make time to rest, socialize with friends, and participate in campus activities. This balance helps me stay motivated, avoid stress, and remain productive in both academics and personal life,” she explains.
Adapting to university life has not been without challenges. The workload is heavier than in high school, and limited resources like access to materials or financial struggles make it harder. The pressure to perform well in all modules can also be intense.
She says her support system has been crucial. “Friends, study groups, and lecturers provide encouragement and guidance whenever I face difficulties. Having people to share challenges with makes the university journey more manageable.” She particularly enjoys the library, describing it as a quiet place where she can focus on studying and preparing for academic work.
Looking ahead, Takalani hopes to use her teaching degree to uplift young people, especially in her community. She wants to be a role model for learners who face poverty and lack resources, showing that education is the key to opportunities. “Even beyond my community, I believe teaching can help build a society that values knowledge and growth. If I inspire even one learner to believe in themselves, that’s already making a difference,” she says.
