25/04/2026
FROM HERDING GOATS TO GRADUATING AT CBU WITH A DISTINCTION
After his graduation from the Copperbelt University with a Bsc. In Mathematics Education as the best graduating student in his field, Pilirani Nyirongo took a moment to share a short story of his journey, with the hope of encouraging other young people from humble backgrounds.
Pilirani comes from Mwase in Lundazi District of Eastern Province. Growing up in his humble village of Chipolopoto, he never thought about school until the age of 10. His two older siblings from his mother’s side had never been to school, so as the last born, he believed that was the normal way of life. Living in a village full of grass-thatched houses, he was afraid of vehicles, the sound of airplanes, and even painted houses. The only place he felt safe was in the bush, tending his goats.
By what he describes as divine intervention, in 2007 the headteacher of a nearby school, Mr. Tembo, advised Pilirani’s mother to take him to school. His first day was difficult, as he felt completely out of place. He only stayed because the headteacher warned him, “If you run away or fail, we’ll call the police, and they’ll beat you from home to here.” That fear pushed him to work hard. In 2008, a man of God spoke words that stayed with him: “This boy will be educated and will become a great teacher.”
Pilirani went on to perform exceptionally in every grade, even skipping Grades Two and Four in primary school. He learned English for the first time in Grade Five. He continued herding goats while studying, using the income from them to support his education up to Grade Nine. His parents sacrificed greatly to keep him in school. When his father passed away in 2014 while he was in Grade Nine, well-wishers stepped in to support his education.
To cut the story short, he began his studies at The Copperbelt University in November 2019 as a BSc NQ student, hoping to become a doctor (though he later realized he was following friends, not his will). His first year wasn’t easy, but he managed to clear. When he didn’t make the points for medicine and was quartered in Pure Chemistry, he decided to return to his childhood dream of teaching. He switched to BSc Mathematics Education, fulfilling what God had spoken years earlier.
In 2022, during his third year, he fell seriously ill and had to withdraw. However, he resumed his studies in 2023 and completed them in 2025. Today, he has graduated with a distinction and was recognised as the best student.
His message to others facing academic challenges is to remain focused and trust in God’s purpose for their lives. He also expressed gratitude to the many people who supported and guided him throughout his journey. He dedicated his degree to his mother, thanking her for her constant prayers and encouragement, and urged students to stay committed, combining faith with hard work.
