Bongeka Mthembu (28) was happy to graduate Cum Laude for her Advanced Diploma in Management sciences: Business Administration at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation, which was held at the Olive Convention Centre on Monday, 27 May 2024.
For Mthembu, graduating Cum Laude came as a surprise since she always thought it was for geniuses. However, through hard work, sacrifices and determination she persevered.
“I was very proud of myself; this accolade contributed positively to my confidence and it served as an encouragement for me to work harder and dream bigger,” said Mthembu.
She described herself as a very respectful and honest person, which are some of the values she came across at DUT. She added that she had been raised to treat other people with respect and she believed that alone could open many doors in the future.
Mthembu shared that it was a bit sweet moment for her because her father who encouraged her to further her studies was no more as he died in October 2023.
“These were exciting news for my family especially because I had made history in the family, being the first person to graduate Cum Laude,” added Mthembu.
She is currently registered for her Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration at DUT and is considering doing her Master’s in Business Administration in the year 2025 and possibly reach a PHD level.
Advising first year students who wants to embark on the same career field, she emphasised the importance of attending lectures and asking for assistance when needed.
“Always remember the reason you came to university. Set goals and timeframes for yourself so that you are organised and do not let social media consume you,” she advised.
The adaptive graduate, Mthembu is currently working at eThekwini Municipality in the Office of the Deputy City Manager for the Human Settlements, Engineering Services and Transport Cluster. She is responsible for the administration function of the office supporting the Deputy City Manager and senior officials.
Pictured: Bongeka Mthembu.
Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.
Patience Makhaye
