Mumsy Boikanyo first worked at North-West University as a security officer, earning a living to support her child. Today, she is a lecturer and PhD graduate at the same institution. 

Her route between those roles took years. She became a mother at 18, failed matric and worked before finding her way back to education.

Now 43 and a mother of three, she told Sowetan that seeing students at the university helped her consider returning to school. 

Returning to the Classroom

Boikanyo improved her matric results in 2009 and enrolled for a Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching in 2010, aged 27.

Returning meant studying alongside younger pupils after her former classmates had moved on. She described that experience as discouraging, but continued. The Funza Lushaka bursary helped support her university studies. 

An assistant-teaching job had introduced her to work she enjoyed. She later taught at the primary school level and completed a master’s degree before moving into university teaching.

Research With Children in Mind

At NWU’s School of Psychosocial Education, Boikanyo teaches English and Setswana and researches early childhood education.

Her doctorate explored how educational applications can help young children think about their learning and develop skills needed before reading. She hopes to turn that research into a practical educational app.

During her doctoral studies, she also faced bereavement and divorce while raising her children. She credits encouragement from family, friends, teachers and her supervisor, alongside financial assistance, as important support. 

The Bottom Line

Boikanyo’s message leaves room for the responsibilities that can delay an education.

“There is dignity in every honest job,” she told NWU. Her advice is to keep learning, develop skills and remain open to opportunities, even while working outside the career you hope to pursue.