07 April 2025
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Story Precious Shamase
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Photo Supplied
Dr Mojaki Mojaki celebrates his PhD achievement, marking a milestone in academic excellence and community-driven educational research at UFS.
In a testament to unwavering determination and a commitment to community empowerment,
Dr Mojaki Mojaki, a dedicated staff member from the University of the Free State (UFS)
Faculty of Education, graduated with his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) on Saturday 5 April 2025 at 14:00. His journey, marked by sleepless nights and demanding schedules, serves as an inspiration for aspiring scholars and educators alike.
Dr Mojaki’s pursuit of a PhD was fuelled by a desire to expand his impact beyond the classroom. “Having been a teacher for many years, I felt a deep need for professional growth,” he explained. “Postgraduate studies were the natural progression.”
However, the path to academic excellence was not without its challenges. Balancing rigorous research with a demanding work schedule required meticulous time management and unwavering discipline. “Setting my own timelines was crucial,” Dr Mojaki revealed. “But adhering to them while managing my work responsibilities meant sacrificing sleep.”
Despite the demanding nature of his research, Dr Mojaki remained steadfast in his commitment. “The going got tough at times, but I never doubted myself,” he said. Drawing on his experience from his master's studies, he approached each challenge as an opportunity for growth.
His advice to students embarking on their PhD journey is rooted in resilience and collaboration. “Pursuing a PhD can be challenging and lonely,” he acknowledged. “Build a strong support system, find a fellow traveller, and remember that every obstacle presents an opportunity to grow.”
Dr Mojaki’s research, grounded in participatory action learning and action research, emphasises community engagement and empowerment. “I wanted to do research with people and for the people,” he explained. This methodology, which fosters trusting relationships and empowers participants, has left a lasting impact on those involved.
“The fulfilment you get when you see your work making a difference in people’s lives is unforgettable,” he stated. He is particularly proud of the collaborative nature of his research and its potential to improve English as a second-language teaching strategy, ultimately empowering learners to develop autonomy.
Looking ahead, Dr Mojaki aims to contribute to the creation of knowledge and enhance the quality of teaching and learning within his community. “A university extends to the community, and its mission is to serve,” he emphasised.
For students feeling overwhelmed by their academic journey, Dr Mojaki offers a message of hope: “Life is never smooth sailing. Relentlessness, determination, and a never-say-die attitude will get you through. Giving up is never an option. Life will knock you down, but such setbacks are opportunities for God to do something extraordinary.”
He credits the UFS for its unwavering support, particularly the Staff Study Support Grant and the
Centre for Graduate Support, which provided invaluable resources and guidance. “The UFS and its faculty were instrumental in my success,” he acknowledged.
Dr Mojaki’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative impact of research that prioritises community engagement. His graduation is not just a personal achievement, but a source of inspiration for the entire UFS community. “I’m just thankful to be celebrating this milestone,” he concluded. “God is good.”