Bulelani Thompson, a security guard at the University of Fort Hare (UFH), has captured national attention after graduating with an honors degree in political science—two decades after financial hardship forced him to drop out.

In 2021, encouraged by his partner, Thompson resumed studies while working as a security guard at UFH’s Alice campus. Balancing shifts with online learning, he completed his degree in record time, graduating this month at age 44.

“Sometimes students would see me on duty with a laptop and think I was watching movies,” he laughed. “But I had to explain it was for my studies.”

Thompson now plans to pursue a master’s in international relations, with dreams of working in global diplomacy. He credits his success to perseverance, his partner, lecturers, and supportive colleagues.

“This journey has taught me it’s never too late to pursue your dreams,” he said.