At 58 years old, Dr Chikhowe Banda proudly graduated from the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2025 Spring Graduation on Friday, 19 September 2025 at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC), Durban. Dr Banda was awarded his Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) in Management Sciences Specialising in Public Administration. Dr Banda’s achievement is not only personal but also a historic milestone for his family, as he is the first in his family to achieve this level of academic success.
Residing in Kwenzekile, Katlehong, Johannesburg, Banda’s journey has been one of resilience, discipline, and determination. He openly acknowledged that his early days at DUT were not easy.
His doctoral research was titled: “Between Policy and Practice: The Political Administrative Dynamics of Policy Implementation in Gauteng Province, South Africa.” He provides with a fresh insight into how political executives such as the Premier, Members of the Executive Council, and Director-Generals influence policy outcomes. His study highlighted the vital role of values, culture, and legitimacy in policy implementation, while also tackling the tensions that arise in democratic governance.
Like many students, Dr Banda faced obstacles along the way. He lost a research supervisor during the COVID-19 pandemic, battled unemployment, and managed family pressures. Yet, he refused to give up. “My family is very happy for me and proud of my achievement. I told myself that I was too old to fail,” he said with pride.
Guided by DUT values of respect and commitment, Dr Banda sees education as a tool for service. He has always believed that there is only one race, the human race, and that knowledge should contribute to the development of all people, regardless of their background.
Looking ahead, Dr Banda has set his sights on a Postdoctoral Fellowship in International Relations, specialising in conflict resolution. He also dreams of giving back to DUT by joining the academic staff and mentoring future generations of students.
His advice to first-year students is simple yet profound: “When it is dark, expect the sun will rise tomorrow. Studies can be difficult when you start, but as time goes by, you are able to adapt.”
Pictured: Dr Chikhowe Banda.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
