20 March 2026
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Story Neo Senoge
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Photo Supplied
Amukelani Sphiwe Tshabalala has completed his degree and will graduate at this year’s graduation ceremony in April.
Resilience and growth are the hallmarks of the University of the Free State experience. Amukelani Sphiwe Tshabalala’s transition from a struggling first-year student to a successful graduate serve as a testament to the power of academic intervention. Central to his success was A_STEP Tutorials, a programme that allowed him to evolve from a student needing support to a mentor providing it. This is the story of how Amukelani found his footing, mastered his curriculum, and paved the way for those following in his footsteps.
Humble beginnings, big dreams
Tshabalala grew up in a small township in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, raised in a close-knit family by his mother, grandmother, aunt, and two uncles. From an early age, he was inspired by his uncles’ determination to succeed, despite coming from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Their journey ignited a drive within him.
Through late-night studying, weekend classes, and relentless self-motivation, Amukelani excelled in high school and achieved exceptional matric results. His hard work opened the doors to university and earned him financial support through the
National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), allowing him to pursue his studies at the University of the Free State.
But as many students discover, university brings a new set of challenges.
When university became challenging
As a first-generation student, he found the transition challenging. Fortunately, his lecturer encouraged students to join A_STEP tutorials for additional academic support. Amukelani decided to give it a try and joined the tutorial group.
This made a huge difference. “The tutors broke down the learning units into simple pieces that were easier to understand. We could ask questions freely and engage with the content, even using our own languages.”
The impact continued into his second year when he faced another challenge – Mathematics. After failing his first three class tests, Amukelani knew he needed support. He joined another A_STEP tutorial group. That decision changed everything.
The power of tutorials
Tshabalala began attending tutorials every week, especially for his major modules. The sessions gave him a safe and supportive space to ask questions, work through difficult problems, and collaborate with fellow students. Slowly, things began to change.
“I would leave my house with questions I thought might appear in tests and exams, confident that I would get clear explanations during tutorials.” More importantly, tutorials helped him find his voice. Participating in discussions, asking questions, and engaging with classmates made him more confident, not only in tutorials, but also during lectures and assessments.
From supported student to supporter
Inspired by the impact that A_STEP tutorials had on his own academic journey, Amukelani developed a passion for helping others succeed.
What started as receiving support eventually turned into giving it. He became an A_STEP tutor, guiding fellow students through challenging modules, just as tutors once helped him.
For Amukelani, tutoring is more than just explaining content. “Helping my peers reach their full academic goals and potential has always been one of my motivations.”
A journey of triumph
Despite experiencing setbacks in his first year, Amukelani refused to give up. His resilience, patience, and determination kept him moving forward. He has completed his degree and will graduate at this year’s graduation ceremony in April. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Education Honours in Curriculum Studies.
His journey reflects the core values nurtured through A_STEP at the University of the Free State: Impact – supporting students to overcome challenges and succeed academically. Excellence – encouraging students to strive for their highest potential. Care – creating a supportive environment where students help students. Amukelani’s story proves that success is possible with the right support system, determination, and belief in yourself. As he puts it best: “One tutorial a day keeps academic stress away.”
Your journey could start today
Whether you are struggling with a module, looking to strengthen your understanding, or hoping to boost your confidence in your studies, A_STEP tutorials are there to support you.
Join an A_STEP tutorial today and start your journey to becoming A_STEP Ahead.