Read all about UP master’s student Shubi Molekwa’s journey, which serves as a powerful reminder that education is not just about acquiring knowledge, but about empowering individuals to change their circumstances and uplift their communities.

In the heart of Hammanskraal lies the village of Stinkwater, where a story of resilience and inspiration unfolds. University of Pretoria (UP) master’s candidate Shubi Mosicca Molekwa, a young educator and the founder of Ikageng Tutorials, has become a source of hope for her community.

Raised in a challenging environment, Molekwa’s journey from determined student to passionate teacher and entrepreneur is a testament to the power of education and the impact that one individual can have on a community. Her upbringing was far from privileged, with her mother working as a security guard and her father holding contractual jobs until 2012. Despite these challenges, Molekwa found strength and inspiration in her education, particularly through the guidance of her teachers.

“I was always looking for positive role models,” she recalls. “I eventually found them in my teachers.”

Molekwa’s educational journey led her to UP, where she pursued a Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education Training, specialising in Tourism and Setswana. Her passion for education didn’t stop there; she went on to enrol in an honours programme in Education Management, Policy and Law, and is now in the final year of her master’s degree.

“My education influenced my work trajectory, leading me to acquire skills such as behaviour modification techniques, behaviour management and clear public speaking,” Molekwa explains.

These skills not only shaped her career, but also equipped her to make a meaningful impact in the lives of her students. Driven by a desire to give back to her community, Molekwa founded Ikageng Tutorials. ‘Ikageng’ means ‘to build oneself’ in Setswana, reflecting her commitment to helping others construct their futures through education. The idea for Ikageng Tutorials was born out of a period of unemployment and a deep-seated need to contribute to her community.

“During my time in secondary school, there were female students who outperformed me academically,” Molekwa says. “They helped me with my homework and assignments, and guided me through the process of applying to universities when I was in Grade 12.”

Inspired by their kindness, she decided to establish a tutorial programme that would offer the same support to secondary school students in her community. However, the road to establishing Ikageng Tutorials was not without its challenges. In the early days, Molekwa faced a lack of resources and support, but her determination never wavered.

“My experience was dreadful because of the lack of essential materials such as a whiteboard and enough chairs. But I pursued my goal with enthusiasm.”

In time, she overcame these obstacles, securing employment and purchasing the necessary materials to create a conducive learning environment for her students. As an educator and entrepreneur, Molekwa’s impact extends beyond the classroom to being a mentor and role model to her students and community.

"One of the significant advantages of being a teacher is the chance to have a profound impact on the lives of students in a positive manner,” Molekwa says. “I have the ability to inspire and motivate, assisting learners to uncover their talents and overcome obstacles.”

Looking to the future, Molekwa has ambitious goals. She envisions expanding Ikageng Tutorials into a registered college that provides unemployed teachers in Gauteng with work opportunities. She also aims to enhance her research skills and contribute to educational policy in South Africa.

“The objective of pursuing a PhD is to contribute to the Department of Education by providing innovative ideas, particularly in the area of altering and analysing school policies in South Africa, with a specific focus on teachers,” she explains.