The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Student Representative Council (SRC), Gideon Mthembu from KwaNdelu, Umzumbe obtained his Advanced Diploma in Human Resources at the DUT Autumn Graduation ceremony, held at Indumiso Campus Hall, Pietermaritzburg this morning, Tuesday, 16 May 2023.
Mthembu serves as the SRC Education and Transformation Officer in the Midlands. His journey at DUT began in 2018 when he enrolled for the Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP) in Business Administration then in 2019 he chose another path, he registered for a Diploma in Human Resources Management which he completed in 2021.
Mthembu believes that 2022 was the most difficult year of his academic journey because he registered for an Advanced diploma which is not funded by National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). But with God on his side, he was able to register and obtain his Advanced Diploma in Human Resources. He is enrolled in Post Graduate Diploma in Human Resource Management.
“I am delighted to be one of the graduates because life has never been easy on me. I regard this qualification as a life time achievement, if it was possible I was going to hold my mother’s hand and walk with her through the graduation stage,” said the ecstatic Mthembu.
His mother is his cheerleader, so she was very delighted when he told her that he will be obtaining his Advanced diploma. She couldn’t wait for this day. He also wished that his late father was present to celebrate this moment with him since he was very supportive.
Mthembu believes that Human Resource chose him because it was the last thing on his mind, he wanted to do Business Administration. Business Administration (ECP) was also a win because he was introduced to some parts of Business Administration, then now he is doing Human Resource which is all about handling the business.
“As a student leader I try by all means to make everyone happy and that has an effect on my personal life. I am failing to balance my personal life and my duties as an SRC member,” said Mthembu.
Mthembu is currently enrolled for his postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management. Mthembu is from Abathembu (Mthembu) clan. He believes that his clan produces academics. He is highly inspired by Professor Thandwa Mthembu the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of DUT.
“Being a leader does not mean that I am superior, I am where I am because of those who voted and those who trusted my skills and potentials. I will forever provide my leadership skills and I will forever account and represent them with fairness and protect their rights. Moreover, I will forever be there in the forefront and serve their interests,” said Mthembu.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Pictured: Gideon Mthembu
Nomvelo Zulu
