Nokwanda Ndovela (25) graduated Cum Laude for the third time for her Postgraduate Diploma in Huma Resources Management at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation which took place at the Olive Convention Centre on Saturday, 25 May 2024.
For Ndovela, graduating Cum Laude was a significant accomplishment and a testament to her dedication and academic excellence.
“It was something one should be proud of. It was true results of my hard work, perseverance, and commitment to my studies that have led to such achievement,” she said.
Ndovela faced a challenge of securing a bursary and finding accommodation since she lived outside the city of Durban and since she was registered part time, the institution could not help her. However, that motivated Ndovela to continue focusing on her studies and being hopeful.
She was grateful for the support of her friends and family, especially her grandmother who holds a very special place in her heart. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank my family and friends for always encouraging me to study hard and my study buddies, we called our self “The wara-wara group/team” special thanks to all my team members,” added Ndovela.
Currently, Ndovela is an HR intern at a pharmaceutical company called Cipla Medpro Manufacturing (CMM). She aspires to grow within the HR career field and wishes to become an HR specialist one day, specialising in recruitment.
She is looking forward to enrolling for her master’s degree once her fees are settled. Advising the first-year students embarking on the same career path, Ndovela stressed the importance of believing in oneself and the chosen career.
“Human Resources (HR) is a highly rewarding field that offers numerous prospects for advancement and impact. Don’t allow someone to undermine your goals or dissuade you from pursuing your passion. Yes, some people may underestimate the importance of human resources or believe that it is a dead-end career. Remember, every firm requires HR specialists to manage its most precious asset: its employees. HR plays a critical role in building company culture, increasing employee engagement, and ensuring labour law compliance. Work hard, stay focused, and don’t be discouraged by negativity. Surround yourself with people who share your vision and are determined to succeed in studies and careers,” concluded Ndovela.
Pictured: Nokwanda Ndovela.
Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.
Patience Makhaye
