For many aspiring postgraduate students, failing to meet the admission requirements can feel like the end of an academic dream. For Ntuli-Mkhize, however, it became the beginning of an inspiring journey that demonstrates the transformative power of recognition of prior learning (RPL) at Unisa.

Recently graduating with a Master of Arts in Communication Science, Ntuli-Mkhize's achievement is a powerful example of how professional experience, determination and lifelong learning can create pathways to academic excellence. Admitted to the master's programme through the RPL route, she has shown that valuable learning takes place not only in classrooms but also through years of professional practice and workplace experience.

Ntuli-Mkhize's path to postgraduate success was shaped by resilience. After completing her undergraduate studies in Public Relations at the University of Johannesburg and earning an honours degree at Unisa, she aspired to continue to master's level. However, she narrowly missed the admission requirement, falling short by just 1.8% in her honours results. Instead of abandoning her ambitions, she explored alternative admission pathways and discovered Unisa's RPL process.

The RPL process required her to reflect on her academic achievements, professional experience and career development in the field of communication. Through this process, she demonstrated that her practical expertise had equipped her with the knowledge and competencies needed to succeed in advanced postgraduate studies.

Studying through Unisa’s open distance and eLearning (ODeL) model enabled her to pursue her academic goals while maintaining a demanding professional career and fulfilling family responsibilities. As a working professional, wife, and mother, flexibility was essential to balancing multiple commitments. Her master's research focused on crisis communication during a pandemic, examining how organisations communicate during periods of uncertainty, disruption and public concern.

The findings of her study directly impacted her professional practice. Through her research, Ntuli-Mkhize developed a deeper understanding of communication as a strategic function that extends beyond the dissemination of information. The master's qualification has significantly enhanced Ntuli-Mkhize's professional capabilities. Reflecting on the impact of her studies, she notes that "It has helped me move from only practising communication to analysing communication more critically and strategically." This shift has strengthened her ability to apply research, analysis and critical thinking skills to real-world communication challenges.

Ntuli-Mkhize is passionate about raising awareness of RPL opportunities for working professionals. She emphasises that admission requirements should not automatically discourage individuals from pursuing further study. Sharing her own experience, she explains that "the RPL route opened a door that could easily have remained closed if I had not taken the time to research and speak for myself."

She further highlights that compiling an RPL portfolio was both manageable and empowering. One of the most valuable lessons from her RPL experience was recognising the importance of maintaining records of professional achievements.

"The RPL process also taught me the importance of documenting your work," she reflects.  

Her success story illustrates the importance of RPL in expanding access to higher education and supporting lifelong learning. Her achievement demonstrates that academic potential cannot always be measured solely through traditional admission criteria. By recognising the value of experiential learning, Unisa creates opportunities for professionals to transform their experience into formal academic and career advancement.

As she celebrates her graduation with a Master of Arts in Communication Science, Ntuli-Mkhize stands as an inspiring example of perseverance, professional growth and academic achievement. Her journey serves as a reminder that determination, supported by innovative access pathways such as RPL, can help students overcome barriers and realise their educational aspirations.

* By Dr Mutambuli Hadji, RPL Specialist