My Lockdown Experience

A heartwarming article written with deep feeling and concern for others.

Ingrid Rewitzky

The author did a great job with connecting their education, what is going on, and their beliefs.

Cecilia Hernandez

Illustration by Nino Mekanarishvili

Anuoluwa Esther Makinde reflects on her studies and life during COVID-19. During this time she has been able to enhance her studies as well as appreciate things many of us may have taken for granted before.

First and foremost, I would like to express my concern for all who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, either directly or indirectly. My thoughts are especially with those who are bereaved and those who are sick, to whom I extend my heartfelt prayers for a full recovery.

The lockdown period has been a very interesting and emotive time for my family and I. During this period, I was able to engage deeper with my studies, especially in the area of bridging the knowledge gap that exists between high school and the university first year courses. I effectively utilized relevant online university study materials and lectures (through the internet) to enhance my studies, especially in mathematics.

I have also been made aware of the difficulties many students face in getting educated, by using the internet, during the lockdown. The costs associated with the daily use of the internet and the unreliability of internet connection on a continual basis are some of the factors that stand as obstacles with regard to online education. Such disadvantages have caused me to appreciate the lectures I had before the lockdown at my university. However, I am highly appreciative of the efforts made by lecturers to educate students in a way that will ensure their full understanding of subject matter, be it through videos, pdf notes, or PowerPoint presentations.

Apart from academic activities, I made time for my normal house chores such as cleaning, cooking etc. on a daily basis.

Illustration by Liani Malherbe

There is no doubt that the current global situation has forced many students, if not many people, to take a necessary break from their usually busy schedules – to appreciate the “simple” things of life. Many activities which were taken for granted, such as getting educated, walking outside, shopping, doing group projects at the university library and so much more have now become activities that are meant to be treasured. The lockdown has caused me to realize that even when we return to the normal routine of life, it is important to regularly take time out to reflect on what we have done and appreciate the many privileges which have been made abundantly available to us. 

As a Christian, the global spread of the lockdown and its impact worldwide, especially on academic activities, has made me to realize the fragility of human endeavors and the power of my Lord Jesus Christ to sustain and protect us. “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Matt. 19:26).

My advice to my fellow students is to make use of the lockdown period to appreciate the privilege of getting educated at university. They should show their appreciation by engaging more in their academic work and studying well, by making use of relevant online materials and lectures to complement their studies, especially their study of mathematics, for better understanding. Above all trust in God and obey His instructions.

Finally, I pray that we shall all succeed and remain safe during these uncertain and unprecedented times due to the global Covid-19 pandemic in Jesus’ mighty name – Amen.

Anuoluwa Esther Makinde

First year Engineering student
STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY

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