BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE – For many young people, studying abroad remains a dream. For Nkanyezi Star Lukhele, it became a reality built on hard work, faith, and determination.
The young Liswati scholar is making the Kingdom proud after receiving the prestigious ICDF Academic Performance Award, a recognition reserved for outstanding students who have demonstrated exceptional academic excellence during the final semester of 2025.
Currently pursuing an International Master’s Program in Mechatronics Automation Engineering and Management at Kun Shan University of Science and Technology in Taiwan, Lukhele’s achievement is more than just an award—it is proof that Liswati youth can compete and excel on the global stage.
His success story serves as a reminder that greatness is not determined by where one comes from, but by the commitment, discipline, and resilience one brings to every opportunity.
Receiving the award was a moment of gratitude and reflection for Lukhele, who acknowledged the role played by the Taiwan ICDF Scholarship Program, his lecturers, professors, and university in helping him reach this milestone.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to the Taiwan ICDF Scholarship Program for this life-changing opportunity to pursue my studies. I sincerely appreciate my university, professors, and lecturers for their unwavering support and guidance. Above all, I give glory to God for His grace and strength throughout this journey. This achievement is a testament to faith, resilience, discipline, and excellence,” he said.
Behind every academic award are countless hours of studying, sacrifices, and moments when giving up may have seemed easier. Yet Lukhele chose to keep moving forward, demonstrating the power of perseverance and self-belief.
At a time when many young people are searching for motivation and direction, his journey sends a powerful message: dreams are valid, and with dedication, they can be achieved.
His accomplishment is not only a personal victory but also a proud moment for Eswatini. It reflects the potential that exists within the nation’s youth and highlights the importance of investing in education and skills development.
As Lukhele continues his studies in Taiwan, he carries with him the hopes of many young Liswati who dare to dream beyond borders. His story is a beacon of hope, encouraging others to pursue excellence, embrace opportunities, and remain steadfast in the pursuit of their goals.
Today, Eswatini celebrates one of its shining stars—a young man whose journey proves that faith, hard work, and determination can take you from the classrooms of home to international recognition.
Indeed, Lukhele is showing that when preparation meets opportunity, excellence follows.
