At just 21 years old, Londeka Mshayisa has already carved a remarkable academic path for himself, culminating in his graduation Cum Laude with the prestigious Dean’s Merit Award from the Durban University of Technology (DUT). A proud graduate in Clinical Technology, specialising in Nephrology, Mshayisa walked the stage at the Olive Convention Centre on Tuesday, 20 May 2025, with pride and joy.
Born in Robbinsdale, Dundonald in Mpumalanga province and later relocating to KwaQuqu, Nongoma in KwaZulu-Natal to care of his ailing grandmother, Mshayisa’s journey is rooted in responsibility, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication. He completed his schooling at Prince Mpikanina High School and began his higher academic journey at DUT in 2021 amid the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reflecting on his university experience, Mshayisa shared, “My journey at DUT was about 70% to 80% online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although that brought challenges, it also gave me time to reflect on who I am and what I truly want for my future.” From virtual lectures to intensive Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) training, he embraced every challenge and opportunity, forging strong professional relationships along the way.
Earning both Cum Laude and the Dean’s Merit award was a moment of immense pride. “It is a beautiful, encouraging, and proud moment I would wish for any hardworking student. Seeing my mother and grandmother cry tears of joy was everything,” he said. Despite not placing pressure on himself to achieve these accolades, Mshayisa always aimed high in every assessment, and his consistency ultimately paid off.
He strongly identifies with DUT’s Living Values of respect and excellence. He explained that these values were instilled in his long before university life. “Respect opens doors,” he added, acknowledging the role her upbringing played in shaping her discipline and success.
Mshayisa’s academic journey was relatively smooth, with the expected pressures of assessments but no overwhelming obstacles. “I was blessed with a strong support system from family to peers and my WIL colleagues,” he shared.
His family’s reaction to his success was deeply emotional. “My mom and grandmother cried when I told them,” he explained.
Mshayisa follows in the footsteps of his older brother, a DUT alumnus who also graduated Cum Laude and with the Dean’s Merit award in Child and Youth Care.
Though he initially knew little about Clinical Technology, his brother’s guidance helped him to discover the field. “Growing up in a rural area with no internet access, I was not exposed to much, but my brother helped me apply, and I’m grateful he did,” said Mshayisa.
Mshayisa is currently employed as a Renal Clinical Technologist at Universal Renal Care (URC) in Mpumalanga, the same company where he had trained during WIL. He is now administering chronic dialysis treatments to renal failure patients. He is also preparing to further his studies, with plans to register for his Master of Health Sciences in Clinical Technology in July, and aspirations to pursue a PhD in the future.
His career goals revolve around contributing to renal healthcare through evidence-based research aimed at improving and innovating treatment options. “I want to make a difference in patients’ lives, especially those living with chronic kidney disease,” he said.
To aspiring students, especially those entering Clinical Technology, Mshayisa offers practical wisdom: “Know why you came to university and do not lose sight of that. Research before choosing your speciality do not do it blindly. Also, discover your personal study technique early. What works for someone else may not work for you.”
Pictured: Londeka Mshayisa
Photographer: Thobela Khumalo
