Wandumuzi Ntuli stood out in a sea of graduates during the ceremony held on Monday, 19 May 2025, at the Olive Convention Centre. As the only student in his class to graduate Cum Laude and receive the prestigious Dean’s Merit Award, his achievement captured the spirit of excellence, determination, and passion that defined his academic journey.
Born and raised in Pietermaritzburg and now residing in KwaDukuza, Wandumuzi celebrated his 30th birthday just days before graduation. His academic journey culminated in the completion of a Diploma in Clothing Management a field he pursued out of pure passion, despite the obstacles along the way.
“My time at DUT was both challenging and rewarding, I grew both creatively and personally,” said Ntuli.
Graduating with Cum Laude and the Dean’s Merit awards were not just a personal achievement, it was a powerful statement that excellence follows when you align with your passion. “Graduating Cum Laude and receiving the Dean’s Merit validates that you excel when you follow your passion,” he said.
Ntuli aligns closely with DUT’s principles of compassion, commitment, and excellence that not only guided him throughout his studies but are also reflected in his work ethic. He credits his lecturers for their unwavering support, describing how their compassion and dedication kept him going, especially during the most difficult moments of his academic journey.
One of the challenges that Ntuli faced on his academic journey was financial instability. “Finding funding was a real struggle and almost made me drop out, but the support from the Wholesale and Retail Seta helped me continue,” said Ntuli.
When Ntuli’s family heard the news of his double honours, their joy knew no bounds. “They were overjoyed and incredibly proud,” he said.
His passion for fashion led him to Clothing Management as a first choice. “I had tried other fields in the past, but the clothing industry is where I belong,” he explained. Ntuli is now working as a Trainee Buyer at Mr Price Group.
“I want to contribute meaningfully to the local fashion and retail space, the South African fashion industry needs fresh minds to grow and compete globally.”
His academic experience also took him beyond South African borders. Through DUT, he had the opportunity to travel to Hamburg, Germany as part of an International Student Mobility programme, allowing him to collaborate with peers from around the world and expand his global perspective.
As he looks ahead, Ntuli has no plans of slowing down. He wants to further his studies.
“I definitely plan to study further, there is always room to grow,” said Ntuli.
For those who want to take the same path as him Ntuli share advice: “Go for it. The industry needs you. Your ideas matter.”
Pictured: Wandumuzi Ntuli
Sinamile Sithole
