Asanda Shezi was among the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics top achievers honoured for academic excellence at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation ceremony which was held at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban on Monday, 18 May 20026. She was the only student in her class to graduate Cum Laude and obtain the prestigious Dean’s Merit Award for her outstanding academic achievement in the Diploma in Taxation programme.
Graduating at the top of her class, Asanda said the journey required sacrifice, perseverance, and long hours of hard work.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude and pride. There were many challenging moments throughout my studies, but I remained focused on my goals and constantly reminded myself why I started. This achievement proves that consistency and determination truly pay off. Receiving the Dean’s Merit Award was unexpected, but it reassured me that all the effort and sleepless nights were worth it,” said Asanda.
She expressed appreciation to her lecturers, family, friends, and peers who supported and encouraged her throughout her academic journey.
“My family believed in me even during times when I doubted myself. Their support kept me going. I also want to thank my lecturers for always pushing me to do my best,” she said.
She hopes her success story will inspire other students, especially young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, to remain committed to their dreams regardless of the obstacles they may face.
“Never underestimate your potential. Your background does not define your future. Stay disciplined, work hard, and believe in yourself,” advised Asanda.
The Faculty of Accounting and Informatics at DUT congratulated Asanda on her exceptional accomplishment, describing her as a shining example of academic excellence and the calibre of graduates produced by the Faculty and the university as a whole.
Her achievement adds to the growing list of outstanding adaptive graduates celebrated during the 2026 Autumn Graduation season at DUT.
Pictured: Diploma in Taxation top achiever, Asanda Shezi with Professor Oludayo Olugbara, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile.
Simangele Zuma
