Young innovator, sportsman and entrepreneur has obtained a Degree of Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Electronic and Computer Engineering at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation Ceremony held at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC) on Thursday, 21 May 2026.
This major milestone represents his years of hard work, late nights, complex projects, and personal growth.
“It marks the beginning of my new phase where he can fully apply my engineering skills in real industry and contribute meaningfully to solving real-world problems,” he said.
His journey has been driven by a deep curiosity about technology and how it can solve real world problems.
“I have been passionate about electronics from a very young age, always curious about how devices work and how technology can solve real problems,” he explained.
Throughout his studies, Ndleko (22) hailing from Durban has worked on groundbreaking engineering projects, including a wireless karate scoring system designed for real tournaments, a touchscreen based ESP32 music player prototype, and several innovations developed through the DUT Technology Transfer and Innovation Program (TTIP) and Innobiz.
His proudest achievement is creating a fully wireless multi-judge karate scoring system, combining his love for engineering and sport into one impactful invention.
Beyond academics, karate became a powerful force in shaping his character. In Karate he has won it all, gold, bronze, and silver at the University Sport South Africa (USSA). Since started karate in 2021 at DUT, Minenhle developed discipline, confidence, leadership and the ability to perform under pressure.
These qualities helped him overcome some of his toughest challenges, including financial struggles after being excluded twice by National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), balancing demanding academics with sports, and working with limited resources during prototype development.
Currently, Minenhle is enrolled for Honours in Electrical Engineering and he also runs his own business, NDLEKO M SOLUTIONS, where he develops innovative hardware, embedded systems, and smart technology solutions.
Guided by the DUT values of excellence, innovation, and integrity, Ndleko dreams of growing his company into a leading tech-driven engineering enterprise.
His message to first-year students is simple, “Stay curious and always explore beyond what you learn in class,” he said.
Pictured: Minenhle Ndleko
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Vukani Langa
