Esethu Mtse, a 24-year-old from the small town of Boksburg in Johannesburg, never imagined that a course she had not initially chosen would become the foundation of her academic and professional success. She is set to graduate with Cum Laude for her Advanced Diploma in Taxation at the Durban University of Technology’s 2025 Autumn Graduation Ceremony, to be held at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC) on Monday, 26 May 2025. Mtse’s academic journey serves as a powerful reminder to young people that the path one never plans for can often lead one exactly to where one is meant to be.
Mtse’s academic journey at DUT began in 2021 when she enrolled for her Diploma in Taxation. She explained that Taxation was not her first choice, it was the only course she qualified for after a gap year. Instead of retreating, she adapted, grew, and thrived. Yet, she excelled earning a Dean’s Merit Award and quickly discovered her interest in the field. In 2024, she advanced to ther Advanced Diploma, and in 2025 she continues to break new ground by pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Taxation. Alongside her studies, she serves as an intern in the Department of Auditing and Taxation and a tutor in the Department of Applied Law at DUT, gaining invaluable experience in both academia and the professional world.
Mtse was raised by her hardworking mother, Nontombizitheni Mdunyelwa, she explained that they had financial problems but her family supported her together with the encouragement from her lecturers, she never lost sight of her goals. “Graduating Cum Laude is the fulfilment of a dream I set for myself, it’s proof that hard work truly pays off, regardless of where you come from,” said Mtse.
Her commitment to learning has now evolved into a deep passion for academia, and she aspires to reach the Doctoral level and eventually become a lecturer in Taxation, contribute to research and mentoring the next generation of professionals.
Mtse explains that the most DUT Living values and principles she resonates herself with are honesty, integrity and respect. “These values have helped in building meaningful relationships with professionals in the field and have played a significant role in shaping my academic and personal growth,” explained Mtse.
Her advice to first-year students is simple yet profound: “Stay eager to learn and be a goal-getter. Even when you don’t have the resources, your determination will attract the support you need,” she added.
Pictured: Esethu Mtse
Sinamile Sithole
