Despite juggling her studies and three crying babies every day, Selma Ambunda (23) has successfully graduated in nursing at the ICare Health Training Institute recently.
Ambunda says becoming a mother of triplets posed several challenges, but she remained focused on completing her qualification and building a better future for her babies.
Originally from Ondonga village in the Olukonda constituency, Ambunda says she discovered she was pregnant last year while studying, and at nine weeks, an ultrasound revealed she was expecting triplets.
“I was shocked and overwhelmed. I had many questions and worries about how I would manage everything,” she says.
Ambunda says juggling motherhood and her studies was one of the hardest experiences she has ever faced.
“The hardest was when I was admitted to hospital with the triplets.
“I had to submit assignments while the triplets were sick and not sleeping.
“I was exhausted, both physically and emotionally,” she says.
What kept her going was her determination to secure a better future for her children.
“I want to give my children a better future and show them that education is possible no matter what.
“My family also encouraged me not to quit,” Ambunda says.
She was also admitted to hospital when doctors identified her pregnancy as high risk.
“Carrying triplets is considered a high-risk pregnancy. I experienced physical discomfort and emotional stress.
“I studied whenever the babies were sleeping and made the most of every free moment,” she says.
Ambunda says she wanted to prove to herself that becoming a mother did not mean giving up on her dreams.
She says she received support from her family and friends – especially her mother.
She encourages other young mothers not to abandon their ambitions because of difficult circumstances.
“Being a mother or a father is not the end of your ambition. It can become your greatest source of strength.”
