Appreciating the knowledge gained from all his academic modules during his Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Industrial Engineering studies is what has earned Durban University of Technology student; Nathanael Govender, his cum laude.
Govender graduated today (Wednesday, 03 September 2014) during the University’s September graduation ceremonies at the Fred Crookes Sports Centre, Steve Biko Campus.
Graduating under the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment’s graduation ceremony, Govender is honoured to be graduating as one of the top students in his Faculty; something he achieved by always setting his academic standards high. “I always set my goals to be the best at everything I do. It is a prestigious honour to be part of the few select individuals to get a cum laude. When one sets high standards for themselves, this type of direction allows them to reach excellence,” he said.
Govender, has to date received 19 distinctions during his Industrial Engineering studies (Diploma and BTech).
Govender currently lectures Business Administration courses at a training facility in Ballito. In-between his studies, he managed to be a corresponding author where he and two fellow students recently published an academic paper in a conference. The paper was presented at the SAIIE 26th Conference in Magaliesburg in July this year (2014). The group made history by being the first three BTech Engineering students from the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment to present an academic paper at conference level. Govender has also worked in the automotive and manufacturing sectors as well as in a consultation company.
“My entire academic journey has been exciting. This one in particular (BTech), I will never forget. It has developed me into a much more rounded individual, both academically and professionally,” he said. “The world as a whole, let alone the engineering sector, has become complex and ever demanding. Thus there is a need for individuals to complete relevant qualifications and proceed into post-graduate studies to contribute to better ways of thinking and practice leading into a better tomorrow,” he said.
– Noxolo Memela
Pictured: Nathanael Govender
