By: Qhawekazi Memani – 27 September 2023

Mashudu Valentine Malatjie a post graduate diploma in Information Technology student from the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) has embarked on an extraordinary journey – destination: Aalen University in the charming town of Aalen, Germany. The reason for her impending adventure is the prestigious Baden-Wurttemberg scholarship, an honour that had opened doors to a world of opportunities she had never imagined before. Mashudu will be with Aalen university for a period of six months.

Mashudu Valentine Malatjie, originally from Limpopo’s Phalaborwa (Ga-Selwane), has had an exhilarating journey at VUT. Her time at the University had transformed her outlook on life in profound ways.  She shares that it has been a mix of excitement and challenges that moulded her into the person she is today. “VUT has given me the chance to see life from a fresh perspective, expanding my horizons beyond his wildest dreams, “she said.

As the day of departure arrived, here is a message from the Internationalization Office, serving as a source of inspiration and encouragement for Mashudu:

“As you prepare to step into a new chapter of your life, remember that every challenge you encounter is an opportunity to learn and grow. You have been granted a remarkable chance to expand your horizons, not only academically but also culturally. Embrace every moment, savour every experience, and never forget the immense potential that brought you here. The road ahead may be filled with new faces, new places, and new challenges, but always keep in mind the words of the great Helen Keller:” Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” Your journey to Germany is a testament to your courage and determination. Embrace it as the adventure of a lifetime and fly the MaVuti Brand high.”

With these words echoing Mashudu’s heart as she boarded flight to Aalen, Germany, ready to embrace the adventure of a lifetime. Mashudu’s journey promises not only academic growth but also the chance to immerse herself in a new culture, broaden her horizons, and become an ambassador of the dreams she had nurtured at VUT. As she looked out of the airplane window, she knew that this was just the beginning of her incredible voyage of discovery.