Beautiful hairstyles, designer shoes, glitzy wear, all formed an integral part of graduation ceremony which began at the Fred Crookes Sports Centre at Steve Biko Campus, today, 13 September 2017.

The Durban University of Technology’s Spring graduation ceremony began its first session with students graduating from the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Applied Sciences and Arts and Design at 9 am.
The ululating, cheers and whistles in the first session were apparent that this was a time for proud parents.

Addressing the house was newly Honorary Graduand Dr Kumi Naidoo, Director of African Civil Society Centre. He congratulated students on their achievements and said the real heroes are not those graduating but it’s the parents, grandparents and extended families.

“None of us would be standing here if it was not for our families so we are taking this moment to say that you for bringing us to this day,” said Naidoo. He also reiterated that as new graduates, they go into the world where they have the potential to make very positive attributes. He urged them to fight against corruption and realise that they are also beneficiaries of public investments.

“This University played a key role in my education when I had attended the ML Sultan campus. So I am very grateful and honoured to have been able to get such an honour in this institution,” said Dr Naidoo.
Malusi Sosibo, a BTech graduate in Cost and Management Accounting, said this day is not really for him but it’s for his parents who are now proud of him “I am not just doing this for myself, but this is for everyone who has helped me through my journey of studying because without them I don’t think I would have made it today, said Sosibo.

Joy and pride were written in the face of Sbonelo Mhlongo’s grandmother, Nonhlanhla Mhlongo, as her grandson was graduating for his National Diploma in Taxation. She said the road has not been easy for him after losing his mother, but she is happy that today he is graduating.
“I am very happy as it has been very hard with no money, but we tried as a family and we are grateful to NSFAS for playing its role in my grandson’s education,” said the jubilant Mhlongo.

Nomfundo Ngcobo

Pictured: 2017 Spring graduates during the graduation ceremony.