Dineo defies the odds to become a military graduate

Ramogwerane

Dineo Mokwana, a military training student who was adopted by the Executive Mayor of Sekhukhune District Municipality (SDM), Cllr Minah Bahula, has successfully graduated South African Airforce Military Base passing out parade at Hoedspruit in Phalaborwa.

The 22-year-old from Ramogwerane Village in Elias Motsoaledi Local Municipality (EMLM), was adopted by the executive mayor after a tragic car accident claimed the lives of her five family members earlier this year. The accident occurred as Dineo’s family was enroute to visit her at the military training school. The executive mayor hosted a mass funeral at Ramogwerane near Tafelkop Village to honour the memory of the deceased.

Following the accident, Executive Mayor Bahula adopted Dineo to ensure that her essential and educational needs were met.

Bahula attended the graduation ceremony in Phalaborwa on Thursday 4 July to support Dineo. She was alongside the Mayor of EMLM, Cllr Magetle Tladi and the Speaker of SDM Council, Cllr David Kgwediyebotse Chego.

The ceremony was also attended by prominent dignitaries, including the Chief of the South African Airforce, Lieutenant General W. S. Mbambo, who extended a special invitation to the executive mayor.

Bahula said Dineo Mokwana’s journey to this achievement has been marked by both resilience and determination.

“This tragic event has only strengthened Dineo’s resolve to succeed and serve her country,” she said.

Bahula expressed her pride and joy in Dineo’s accomplishment, stating: “Dineo has shown immense courage and perseverance through such a difficult time. Her success in the Military Training Program is a testament to her strength and dedication. We are all incredibly proud of her and look forward to seeing the positive impact she will continue to make.”

Dineo was part of the Military Skills Development System (MSDS) in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), which offers young South Africans a chance to join and serve the military voluntarily. After completing their service, they can either continue in the SANDF or leave to contribute to the economy and society using the skills they acquired through the MSDS programme.

Under the leadership of Colonel Jerry Magana, the Officer Commanding, along with Lieutenant Colonel Ephry Kgoale, the Training Coordinator, and Lieutenant Colonel Gideon Rupping, the Efficiency Coordinator, the South African Air Force Gymnasium staff and Basic Military Training Instructors have been a source of hope and inspiration for trainees, helping them become fully-fledged soldiers since they began their training earlier this year.

Guided by the Chief of the SA Air Force, Lieutenant General Wiseman Mbambo, and his “Free the Eagle” slogan, these young men and women are learning military protocols and embracing resilience and patriotic service.

Dineo is among the 359 new members officially joined the ranks after the parade at the Air Force Gymnasium.