Graduates at the Durban University of Technology were encouraged to study further as the University’s 2015 April Graduation Ceremonies kicked off at the Indumiso Campus, Imbali, Pietermaritzburg yesterday morning (Wednesday, 15 April 2015).

During this graduation season, the University will hold 18 graduation ceremonies at its Midlands and Durban centres.

Dr Martin Mandew, Director of the DUT Midlands Centre, told graduates that their graduation was only the start. “You’re now one of us. Let this not be the last day that you are graduating. A diploma is just the beginning, a BTech is a step closer, so do come back and study for your BTech, MTech and DTech degrees,” said Dr Mandew.

In his message to students, Professor Ahmed Bawa, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of DUT, congratulated graduates for their achievement and also echoed Dr Mandew’s sentiments. “We hope you will return to the University to undertake post-graduate studies. Those of you who are graduating for a diploma must go on a pursue studying towards other degrees. South Africa needs more highly trained people, so this is by no means a permanent goodbye,” said Prof Bawa.

The advice did not fall on deaf ears, with graduates being adamant that they would return to the University to expand their knowledge. “I have enrolled for my BTech and am currently studying. Once I graduate again next year, I hope to enrol for my Master of Technology in Information Technology degree,” said Noluthando Ngema.

Nicholas Ngcobo, who was graduating for his BTech degree, said he was currently working on his MTech dissertation and hoping to finish it within this year. “One day I want to be Professor Ngcobo. I’d like to positively influence other children in my family to aim for their PhD degrees,” said Ngcobo.

– Noxolo Memela

Pictured: DUT graduates toss their graduation caps in the air in sheer elation.