The Student Governance and Development unit, in partnership with the Student Services at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) hosted a Graduation Celebratory Luncheon at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) on Friday, 06 June 2025. The event honoured the academic achievements of student leaders and Student Services staff members who recently graduated during the DUT 2025 Autumn Graduation ceremonies.
This special occasion aligned with DUT’s Living Values, particularly the value of excellence, by acknowledging the hard work, resilience, and commitment of the student leaders and staff members.
In his opening remarks, Mr Masiza Ngculu, Manager of Student Governance and Development at DUT welcomed guests and explained the purpose behind the gathering. He noted that the event aimed to recognise the achievements of recent graduates within the university’s student leadership and Student Services sectors.
“The day was more than a celebration, it was a recognition of a new generation of excellence emerging from DUT,” said Mr Ngculu.
He who emphasised that celebrating academic success reflects DUT’s commitment to cultivating a culture of high performance and meaningful transformation.
Dr Clement Moreku, Dean of Students at DUT, congratulated the graduates and reflected on the journey behind each qualification. He reminded attendees that their graduation represented more than a certificate, it was a symbol of endurance and purpose. Quoting Nelson Mandela, he said, “After climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb.” He urged graduates to continue pursuing their dreams and to strive for further qualifications. Dr Moreku emphasised the importance of DUT’s ENVISION2030 strategy and encouraged graduates to break new ground, even in a difficult job market, by embracing entrepreneurship and lifelong learning.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, DUT Registrar called on both staff and students to redirect their focus toward personal and academic growth. He acknowledged the everyday challenges in the workplace, noting that while some conflicts are healthy, others are toxic and unproductive. “Let us go back to school,” he urged, emphasising the importance of ongoing learning, especially for student services practitioners. He spoke of the value of blending academic knowledge with lived experience what he referred to as “street wisdom” gained during his respectable time spent in the Student Services sector. Dr Nkonoane congratulated the graduates and challenged them to continue until they attain doctoral degrees, noting that DUT has yet to produce an SRC alumnus with a PhD.
“Go further, because DUT is not the end of the world it’s just the beginning,” he encouraged.
Dr Nkonoane also highlighted the complexities of leadership, sharing his personal experience of public criticism during SRC operations. Despite the challenges, he said he remained committed to helping students many of whom later returned privately for support. He applauded the resilience of the SRC and urged them to set a precedent by preparing formal handover reports for the incoming student leadership.
“You don’t owe your achievements to the noise. You owe it to your families, your communities, and yourselves,” advised Dr Nkonoane.
Thalente Hadebe from the Financial Aid unit at DUT, speaking on behalf of the graduated staff, expressed deep gratitude for the recognition. She reflected on the unique challenges of balancing professional duties, academic work, and personal responsibilities. She was recently conferred with her Master of Management Sciences in Administration and Information Management.
“Our success is proof that with determination and purpose, anything is possible,” she said.
Hadebe emphasised that their work in Student Services stems from a passion for supporting students, and now, as graduates, they walk the academic journey with them. She linked their success to DUT’s transformation agenda and cited the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thandwa Mthembu’s words during the launch of ENVISION2030. She quoted: “You are either in the plane, or you don’t fit in the plane.” His message affirmed that staff members are indeed part of DUT’s transformation and that their graduation is a stamp of real possibility.
Representing the SRC members who recently graduated, Solomzi Zoleka, SRC President, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks. He acknowledged the speakers and praised the collective effort that contributed to their success.
“You have changed the narrative, you have proven that leadership and academic excellence can coexist, ”he said.
Zoleka further applauded their time management, resilience, and dedication, congratulating them for inspiring future leaders. He also extended his gratitude to the staff members who graduated, thanking them for their commitment and support throughout the journey.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Ms Sthembile Mjadu, Acting Director of Student Services in the Midlands. With warmth and humour, she congratulated the graduates and reflected on their shared accomplishments. She acknowledged the challenges many faced in juggling responsibilities but praised their dedication and perseverance.
“We underestimate the power of rewarding ourselves, but celebrating our wins is what keeps us going,” she explained.
Mjadu encouraged graduates to translate their academic success into meaningful transformation within their workspaces and communities.
“This is just the beginning, may your journey of self-development continue,” she concluded.
Pictured: DUT staff member and student leader celebrating academic excellence.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Sinamile Sithole
