Hemisha Nair from Durban, graduated Cum Laude and received the esteemed Dean’s Merit Award for academic excellence for her Bachelor of Health Sciences: Diagnostic Radiography. The degree was conferred to Nair on 30 May 2023 during the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn graduation hosted at the Olive Convention Centre.

The 27-year-old acknowledged the amazing journey she’s had at DUT. Nair explained that she met such amazing people that made her academic journey pleasant.

“I will always cherish the journey I have had at DUT, because it was just incredible. I appreciate the highs and the lows. What made the whole experience to be greater is that I got a chance to study with my identical twin sister, Girisha Nair, which was so much fun,” said Hemisha Nair.

Nair thanked her family for being her biggest supporters throughout her academic journey, highlighting that they stuck with her from start to finish. She added that she will always be grateful for their presence in her life. It was when she was going through difficult times that she relialised that no one would ever give her the support like the one she got from her family.

She explained that she felt completely ecstatic when she found out she had achieved Cum Laude. According to Nair, she was expecting it as she had always prioritized her academics from her first year of study but attaining Dean’s Merit came as a complete shock to her. Nair driven by knowing that her hard work would help me achieve success and prosperity.

“When the COVID-19 pandemic occurred, I had to adapt to online learning but practicals still continued at our respective Work-Integrated-Learning centres. I’m currently doing my Community service as a Diagnostic radiographer,” said Nair

Nair advised the first year students to be dedicated to the process and remain positive that they are indeed capable of achieving their goals. Sacrifices may need to be made but it will all be worth it in the end when one achieves their qualification.

“I dedicate my achievements to my family. They had played a big part in allowing me achieve this big milestone in life. I humbly thank my parents, Colin and Shakila Nair, my older sister, Selishia Nair and my identical twin sister, Girisha Nair, who had also studied with me. They had always ensured that I succeed with my academic achievements,” concluded Nair.

Pictured: Twins, Hemisha and Girisha Nair.

Nikiwe Sukazi