Basetsana Makhakhe, 25, spent countless hours glued to the television, captivated by hospital dramas—especially the life-saving work of the nursing staff. It was during these moments that she realised her calling.
This week, Basetsana, who hails from Maseru, Lesotho, graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing degree from the University of the Western Cape (UWC).
Among the proudest in the audience at Jakes Gerwel Hall was her mother, Puseletso Makhakhe, who cheered her on from the crowd.
Before the ceremony, Puseletso shared that Basetsana had attended New Horizons College in Bethlehem for both primary and high school.
“After finishing matric, she enrolled in this course. According to her research, the nursing programme here at UWC is one of the best. So she preferred UWC,” said a beaming Puseletso.
Though she has visited Cape Town many times before, Puseletso described this trip as the most meaningful—marking the culmination of her daughter’s years of hard work and determination.
Basetsana reflected on her long-standing passion for nursing.
“From a young age, I’ve been watching medical shows, and I’ve seen how nurses make a difference in the world. I wanted to be part of that,” she said.
Describing the course, she admitted it was no easy journey: “It was hectic, it was challenging. I had a mental crisis last year, but then I overcame that. I’m happy,” said a relieved Basetsana.
