Mr Khanyisani Mthembu, who teaches at the Durban Metro Police Academy, graduated with a Bachelor of Laws degree.

‘My passion for Law started in high school, umpteen years ago but I was not able to pursue my dream because my parents did not have the funds for university. Today I am proof that a dream delayed is not a dream denied,’ said Mthembu.

‘This qualification has provided me with knowledge and insight into the Law profession, enabling me to ensure that at all times my duties are executed within the confines of the law. Since I teach Law, I can now confidently answer the students’ questions,’ he added.

Mthembu said his greatest wish is to inspire his colleagues and encourage them to start studying to dispel the myth that police men and women are not well-educated. ‘As a police officer, one needs to understand the law in order to avoid unlawful arrests and civil claims against the department.’

During his third year of study, Mthembu was nominated to attend the Draeger Course in Cape Town on behalf of Durban Metro Police which was presented by advocates from the Road Traffic Management Corporation.

He is currently in talks with the department to conduct short courses on amendments to the law in order to equip fellow police officials to perform their duties to the best of their ability.

‘I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt thanks to my wife and children, eThekwini Municipality as well as the Durban Metro Police for all their support over the years,’ said Mthembu, who now plans to enrol for the School of Law’s practical legal training programme.

Words: Lungile Ngubelanga
Photograph: Abhi Indrarajan