From “No Grade 12” to a Master’s: Kunda Mando’s Unbreakable Journey of Resilience and Redemption

In an emotional celebration of perseverance and faith, Kunda Mando, Assistant Director and Head of Communications at the Ministry of Education, has defied all odds to earn a Master’s Degree in Strategic Communication for Development from Mulungushi University.

Her journey — from not having a full Grade 12 certificate to achieving postgraduate excellence — has captivated many, serving as a testament to courage, resilience, and the power of education to restore dignity.

Kunda’s story is one of rare determination. Years ago, she faced a difficult truth — she could not progress academically because she did not possess a complete Grade 12 certificate. For many, that would have been the end of the story. But for Kunda, it was the beginning of a comeback.

“For a long time, I missed out on opportunities simply because I wasn’t adequately educated,” she recalled. “That reality taught me something profound; formal education does not just equalize, it restores and cements dignity.”

With remarkable humility, she returned to David Kaunda Technical Secondary School, sitting among students much younger than herself, determined to rewrite her Grade 12 subjects one by one — even as she was already an established journalist.

Amid laughter and mockery from some who couldn’t understand her decision, Kunda pressed on. Her focus was unshakable.

“This was about me, not them,” she said. “Step by step, I earned my certificate, then my degree, and now my Master’s.”

“In the sport of boxing, one of the most fascinating things is how a knocked-down opponent manages to beat the referee’s count of ten. Life is the same — it will knock you down, but victory lies in getting back up every single time.”

Kunda was among several professionals conferred with Master’s degrees during Mulungushi University’s graduation ceremony on Friday. Others celebrating alongside her included Chomba Musika (Senior Reporter, Zambia Daily Mail), Chongo Musonda (Director of Public Relations, Federation of Free Trade Unions of Zambia), and Balewa Zyuulu (Principal Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Agriculture).

Their moment of joy was captured in a celebratory photograph — four communication experts from different institutions united by one shared story of hard work and ambition.

“Today belongs to me, and I am not even done yet. If I can do it, so can you — especially as a woman. Stop regretting. Get up and go! The only way is up,” she declared with a beaming smile.

Kunda’s story goes beyond personal victory — it is a message to anyone who has ever felt left behind by circumstance. Her journey reflects the truth that it’s never too late to start over, and that perseverance can outshine any setback.

 “To anyone who feels like they’ve failed or fallen too far, please hear this: start again. It’s never too late to rebuild. Ignore the naysayers, silence the doubts, and remain a prisoner of hope because in the end, God truly rewards hard work.”

From rewriting her high school exams to earning one of the most respected postgraduate qualifications in her field, Kunda Mando’s story embodies the essence of lifelong learning and transformation.

Her success stands as a beacon of encouragement — especially for women in public service and aspiring students across Zambia — reminding them that no obstacle is too great when faith, focus, and perseverance lead the way.