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From library shelves to code lines: Sifiso Banda's journey

08 April 2025 | Story Precious Shamase | Photo Supplied

In the heart of the University of the Free State Qwaqwa Campus, Sifiso Banda's story is one of ambition, and the seamless fusion of seemingly disparate worlds. Balancing his role as Senior Assistant Officer: Circulations and TK Mopeli Makerspace in the library with the rigorous demands of a BSc Honours Degree in Computer Science, Banda has not only excelled but also inspired.

Overcoming challenges fuelled by dreams

"Computer Science is my primary passion," Banda explains, his voice resonating with determination. "Being in academia allows me to interact with ever-evolving technologies. I love problem-solving and creating new ideas to help my community. “However, the path was far from easy. Juggling a demanding job with intense academic pressure led to sleepless nights and near-burnout. "It required immense professionalism in time planning and management," he confesses. "I almost gave up, but the unwavering support of my colleagues and supervisors kept me going."

Banda's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, fuelled by a deep sense of responsibility and gratitude. "I had to remind myself daily who I was doing this for," he says, his voice filled with emotion. "My late mother used her last savings to register me for university, giving me an opportunity she never had. That memory pushed me through the pain."

From theory to practice: Innovating library technology

His unique position within the library has provided an unexpected synergy with his Computer Science studies. "I saw a gap to bridge theory with practical application," Banda explains. "I want to use my tech skills to innovate and make education engaging, developing systems and apps that simplify student life."

He discovered that library science extends far beyond traditional book management. "It's not just borrowing and cataloguing," he says. "There are diverse career paths for a computer scientist, such as systems librarian."

Banda's practical application of his computer science knowledge is evident in his daily work. He plays a key role in managing and configuring the library's technology, including RFID self-check machines and automated chutes. Notably, a YouTube demonstration he created showcases his ability to bridge the digital divide for library users.

The most daunting challenge was his mini-dissertation. "It demanded immense time, often encroaching on my work hours," he recalls. "Balancing coding, documentation, and assisting patrons was incredibly difficult."

Evolving technology and support

His fascination with computer science stems from its dynamic nature. "Technology evolves daily," he says. "I'm particularly drawn to artificial intelligence and machine learning, as I envision a future where everything is digitised. My childhood dream was to build robots that could assist in households."

Banda credits several mentors for their profound impact on his academic journey. Prof Richard Ocaya, Prof Lehlohonolo Koao, Dr Andronicus Akinyelu, and Adebola Musa all provided crucial guidance and support. He also acknowledges the invaluable emotional support from Nonhlanhla Moleleki, a counsellor, and Khethiwe Bhiyo, his academic adviser. "The community at large played a vital role," he emphasises.

His advice to students working while studying is simple yet powerful: "Everything is possible with consistency, persistence, determination, and dedication. Keep focused, no matter how long it takes."

His research project, an online dining hall purchasing system, exemplifies his commitment to community-driven innovation. "It has reduced wait times and queues across our campuses," he says proudly.

Looking ahead, Banda plans to pursue a master's degree, aiming to combine his library experience with his technical expertise. "I envision libraries becoming increasingly digitised, and I want to be part of that evolution," he states.

The skills he gained – time management, multitasking, collaboration, and the courage to seek help – will be invaluable in his future endeavours. "Most importantly, believe in yourself," he concluded.

News Archive

UFS council elects Nwaila and Hancke

2005-03-15

Dr Charles Nwaila, Superintendent-General of Education in the Free State, was elected Vice-chairperson of the UFS Council and Judge Faan Hancke was re-elected as Chairperson today.

According to the Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Frederick Fourie, the election of Dr Nwaila is an important achievement for the UFS as Dr Nwaila is a well known leader in education in the Free State.

Dr Nwaila pledged to work constructively with the UFS council and management to ensure that the UFS benefits all people of the province and the country.

The appointments are valid for a term of three years from 1 June 2005 to 31 May 2008.

The elections took place at the quarterly meeting of the UFS Council where a number of other key transformation steps were approved.

The Council approved a Strategic Plan for the UFS which reflects a renewed focus on transformation of the institution, calling it an important roadmap for the future of the UFS.

According to Prof Fourie, the Strategic Plan tried strike a balance between continuity and change, addressing the need to remain an excellent university in an ever-changing context and environment.

Prof Fourie said transformation had many aspects and dimensions and could not be reduced to an issue of numbers.

The Strategic Plan identifies five strategic priorities and corresponding challenges in the next phase of transformation.

The priorities are:

quality and excellence
equity, diversity and redress
financial sustainability
regional co-operation and engagement.
outward thrust

Prof Fourie said that besides the five strategic priorities the plan also reflected concrete actions and interventions to address them.

He said the renewed focus on transformation is embedded in the priorities and specific actions that are identified.

The Council congratulated the management for the roadmap and for the achievements that have already been achieved in terms of transformation.

In order to draft a comprehensive Transformation Plan that will give substance to certain aspects of the UFS Strategic plan – or roadmap – the Council approved the establishment of a Transformation Plan Team.

The team will consist of about 16 people, which includes the two coordinators, Prof Teuns Verschoor, Vice-Rector: Academic Operations, and Dr Ezekiel Moraka, Vice-Rector: Student Affairs.

According to Prof Verschoor, the team was chosen and approved by the Executive Management earlier for the individual contributions that they could make.

While the individuals do not represent particular constituencies on campus they are a very diverse group of persons in terms of race, gender and various sections of the campus and the satellite campuses.

Prof Fourie, said there was an urgency and importance attached to the work of the Transformation Plan Team.

He said that while the team must produce a plan within a tight deadline, the task must be carried out very well, which could mean different stages in the work of the team.

According to the Rector, the UFS must take the lead in best practice transformation, while not underestimating the complexity of the issues facing the UFS.

The full list of names will be finalized soon.

MEDIA RELEASE
Issued by: Mnr Anton Fisher
Director: Strategic Communication
Cel: 072 207 8334
Tel: (051) 401-2749
11 Maart 2005

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