AFRICA | A brilliant young African lady named Mongiwa Hazel Ntuli has set an extraordinary record, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Actuarial Science from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, at just 17 years old, an age when most students are only beginning their university journey.
Mongiwa’s story is one of grit, brilliance, and early excellence.
Mongiwa's Story and How She Did It
Her academic potential was evident from childhood, prompting her teachers to accelerate her through both primary and high school.
By the age of 14, she had already completed her matriculation at Kenilworth High School, where she achieved seven distinctions, earning her admission to the University of Pretoria.
When she began her university journey in 2022, Mongiwa stood out not just for her age but also for her determination to pursue Actuarial Science, a course known globally for its rigor and analytical intensity.
“I wanted to challenge myself. Actuarial science seemed like the perfect doorway to do that, and UP provided the best environment to learn and grow,” she shared.
In 2025, Mongiwa graduated with distinction at just 17 years old, making history as one of the youngest graduates in the university’s history.
Her accomplishment quickly went viral across social and academic circles, inspiring young African students to aim higher regardless of their background or age.
But her academic journey was not without challenges. Being much younger than her classmates often made her feel out of place.
“Many students treated me like the little sister they never had,” she said. “There were a lot of expectations of me, and it got difficult to meet those expectations.”
Despite these struggles, Mongiwa credits her mentors, lecturers, and house mother, Zamile, for helping her stay grounded and confident.
“They constantly encouraged me to step out of my shell,” she said. “Graduating means I am stronger than I thought. It also means I can be a beacon of hope for people back home.”
For Mongiwa’s family, her success represents a dream fulfilled. As the first person in her family to graduate from university, she believes her achievement has lifted generations of hope.
“My parents finally have their much-deserved bragging rights. It has relieved a lot of pressure that our family has carried for so long,” she said proudly.
Now, the young genius is pursuing an Honours degree in Actuarial Science and hopes to qualify fully as an Actuary while exploring opportunities in the business and financial sectors.
Looking ahead, she also plans to pursue an MBA and combine her technical and business skills to create a lasting impact across Africa. To young girls aspiring to study STEM courses, Mongiwa offers simple but powerful advice:
“If an opportunity is presented to you, take it with both hands and reach for the stars. Be teachable, stay humble, and learn how to fail forward. You don’t know everything—so be ready to receive all the knowledge and wisdom you can.”
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