Joy and cheers filled the Olive Convention Centre as Thandolwethu Singwane celebrated becoming the first person in his family to obtain a Master’s degree with Dean’s Merit. The 28-year-old from Mangweni in Mpumalanga left home in 2016 to study at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), determined to build a better future through education. Today, he graduated with a Master of Accounting during the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics Graduation Session, obtaining Cum Laude and Deans Merit award for academic excellence.
He enrolled for a National Diploma in Cost and Management Accounting with the goal of graduating and securing employment. However, during his third year, he realised that finding a job was more difficult than he had expected. Instead of becoming discouraged, he chose to continue studying while looking for work opportunities.
Leaving Mpumalanga to study in Durban was a big adjustment. Being away from home came with challenges, but he stayed focused on his dream. Over time, he secured employment and continued furthering his studies at the same time.
Balancing full-time work and postgraduate studies was demanding and often exhausting, but his dedication and discipline kept him motivated. His efforts eventually paid off when he graduated Cum Laude, recognising the hard work and commitment he had invested in his studies over the years.
“One of the greatest difficulties I faced was juggling multiple responsibilities. I began pursuing my master’s degree while working, which proved to be both tiring and demanding, but I managed to find a way to balance everything,” he said .
This achievement was especially meaningful because it marked his second Cum Laude qualification. He had previously obtained Cum Laude during his Advanced Diploma studies, but was unable to attend the graduation ceremony due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, Thandolwethu works as a Finance Master Data Analyst. Although he has always had a passion for accounting, particularly management accounting and inventory management, he has also developed a growing interest in data analysis and technology.
“I have always aspired to be an accountant, but as the world evolved and new technologies emerged, I developed a passion for data analysis,” he explained.
His family was proud to celebrate his achievement, especially his mother, who was overjoyed when she heard the news.
He believes accountability, hard work, and consistency are important values for students who want to succeed. He encourages young people to stay focused on their goals and remain committed, even when challenges arise.
Pictured: Thandolwethu Singwane
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile.
Thubelihle Dumakude
