A 23-year-old, Phiwokuhle Banele Mafuleka from the eMombeni area in Jozini, KwaZulu-Natal, has successfully graduated Cum Laude during the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremony. The graduation took place at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC) in Durban on Monday, 18 May 2026. Mafuleka completed his Advanced Diploma in Internal Auditing with distinctions.
Sharing his academic journey, Mafuleka described his time at DUT as challenging, rewarding, and long. He began studying for a Diploma in Internal Auditing (ECP) in 2021, which he completed in 2024. He then pursued an Advanced Diploma in Internal Auditing, completed in 2025, and is currently studying towards a Postgraduate Diploma in the same field. Throughout his studies, he remained committed to academic excellence and consistently achieved strong results.
“My time at DUT shaped not only my academic abilities, but also my critical thinking, discipline, and resilience. I also served as an Administrative Assistant Intern in the Department of Auditing and Taxation at DUT, which enhanced my understanding of the professional environment,” he explained.
Reflecting on the challenges he faced as a student, Mafuleka highlighted balancing academic demands with personal and financial pressures.
“As a student, maintaining consistency while dealing with limited resources required strong discipline and time management. However, these challenges strengthened my resilience and work ethic. The financial burden was particularly devastating, as I had to limit many aspects of my life,” he shared.
He added that his family was emotional and proud when they heard the news of his achievement.
“Their support has been a major pillar in my journey, especially my mother, who has been with me throughout. Unfortunately, she and the rest of my family members could not attend my graduation ceremony due to financial constraints,” he said.
Mafuleka said graduating Cum Laude reflects the hard work, sacrifices, and consistency he maintained throughout his academic journey.
“It is not just a personal achievement, but also a symbol of perseverance and determination. It motivates me to continue striving for excellence in my professional career. To think that I have wanted this moment since my diploma years, and now I have finally achieved it, is truly exciting,” he said.
Speaking about the DUT living values and principles that guide him, Mafuleka said he strongly associates with excellence, integrity, and accountability.
“Excellence guided my academic performance. Integrity is fundamental in the auditing profession, as internal auditors are expected to tell the truth and do the right thing, even when it is uncomfortable or difficult. Accountability ensures responsibility in both academic and professional environments,” he expressed.
Mafuleka is currently completing his Postgraduate Diploma in Internal Auditing and plans to further his studies even more in future. His goal is to continue building his academic and professional qualifications in order to position himself as a specialist in the field.
Encouraging first-year students, Mafuleka advised them to remain disciplined and consistent.
“Do not underestimate the power of starting early. Focus on understanding your work rather than memorising it and always seek to improve. Do not be afraid to ask for help when needed and make full use of the resources provided by the institution to support your studies,” he advised.
Mafuleka recently started a new position as a FICA Officer Learner at African Bank. “This opportunity allows me to apply my academic knowledge in a real-world environment, specifically within the banking sector, and further strengthens my understanding of different industries,” he concluded.
Pictured: The excited Phiwokuhle Mafuleka at his graduation.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
