As Mlondi Cele stepped onto the graduation stage at the University of the Free State (UFS) this April, the moment marked more than just the completion of his studies. It reflected a journey shaped by persistence and a clear commitment to improving education for Deaf learners.
A South African Sign Language (SASL) user on the Bloemfontein Campus, Cele graduated as part of the university’s April cohort. Reaching this point required navigating the demands of university study while working across different communication contexts as a Deaf student.
Daily academic life called for focus and adaptability. Lectures, assessments, and teaching preparation each came with its own expectations. Staying on track meant building consistency and drawing on the support available to him.
His ambitions extend beyond his own achievement. Cele is focused on strengthening education for Deaf children, particularly in classrooms where South African Sign Language is not consistently used or understood.
That commitment became clear during his teaching practical at the Bartimea School for the Deaf in Thaba Nchu. Observed by Dr MC Letuma from the UFS Faculty of Education, Cele demonstrated confidence in the classroom and a strong connection with learners.
Dr Letuma noted that Cele’s performance also points to a wider challenge in the schooling system. Many special schools continue to face gaps in South African Sign Language competency among educators, which affects teaching and learning.
Graduates like Cele are starting to shift this reality. They bring both lived experience and professional training into spaces where it is needed.
Reflecting on his journey, Cele speaks about the lessons shaped through difficulty.
“This journey has taught me that success is never a straight path. It is built through struggle, silence, doubt, and courage. I have learned to stay grounded in where I come from, because my roots give meaning to how far I can go. To anyone reading this – your challenges are not your end, they are your becoming. Hold on, keep going, and believe deeply: anything is possible,” he says.
With his qualification complete, Cele is now moving to the next phase of his work: teaching, advocating, and contributing to more inclusive education for Deaf learners.