By Mpho Elia
From the small town of Bultfontein in the Free State to the halls of the Central University of Technology Free State (CUT), 22-year-old Kekeletso Matuka has carved a remarkable path showcasing her passion, perseverance, and purpose.
Kekeletso has completed both a Diploma and an Advanced Diploma in Language Practice and Media Studies and is now pursuing a postgraduate Diploma in the same fields, with plans to culminate her academic journey with a master’s degree next year. She is deeply invested in the world of language.
What began as a mere curiosity in media during her high school years soon blossomed into a full-blown love affair with language.
“I didn’t know I’d end up being a Language Practitioner,” she shares.
Her teacher recognized her potential, and that encouragement led her to apply for a Diploma in Language Practice and Media Studies.
Throughout her academic journey, Kekeletso has garnered numerous accolades, including being named the Top Academic Achiever during her diploma studies and earning membership in the Golden Key International Honour Society, which is an accolade reserved for the top 15% of students in the Faculty of Humanities.
Additionally, she has received recognition from the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, along with multiple Dean’s Awards in the Faculty of Humanities for her excellence in tutoring.
Beyond the accolades, Kekeletso emphasizes that these achievements have instilled in her a deeper sense of confidence, particularly as she navigates her struggle with imposter syndrome.
As a Student Assistant in CUT’s Language Services Unit, Kekeletso actively contributes to terminology development and multilingualism initiatives aimed at making learning more accessible, especially for students who do not speak English as their first language.
“Language can be a barrier in academia. I want to help break that barrier and make learning easier.”
Her advice to current students is simple yet profound: be present and attend lectures, as they are essential to the learning journey.
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