Kutlwano Olifant
HE THOUGHT that his dream of studying for a BCom accounting degree would be just that – a dream – after several companies turned down his applications for bursaries.
But now Brian Mthembu, one of Soweto’s top matriculants, will be going to Wits University this year – thanks to the auditing firm SizweNtsaluba-Gobodo.
The company has granted the former Lamula Jubilee Secondary School’s top pupil a bursary, which will cover his tuition fees, course books and accommodation.
The 17-year-old will also receive a monthly allowance over the next four years while he is studying.
Brian achieved six distinctions: in maths, life sciences, physical science, Zulu, life orientation and geography. He scored 73 percent for English.
The quiet and shy teenager said he was grateful.
“I am extremely happy and ready to start with my studies,” he said with a smile. “I am very happy. I am grateful to SizweNtsalubaGobodo, who came to our rescue.”
Brian, who had commuted to Soweto from the Joburg CBD for school, was offered accommodation by his Grade 11 maths teacher, Patrick Mudua, when he wanted to sleep at the school to be able to study. He had said it was difficult to study in town, where he lived with his sister. His mother lives in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal.
Tshepiso Nyatlo, the human resources manager at SizweNtsalubaGobodo, said the company’s chief executive had read the story in The Star and had decided to help the boy reach his dream of becoming an accountant.
“We believe he is going to do well. He will receive support from the firm and encouragement during his studies,” she said. Brian will also have a mentor from the firm once he starts his studies.