Mandy Thobeka Duma, a passionate young woman from Bhamshela in KwaZulu-Natal, turned a journey of challenges into a story of triumph as she had proudly graduated from the Durban University of Technology (DUT) with a Diploma in Public Administration in Public Management. Her achievement, celebrated on 12 May 2025 at the Indumiso Campus, was marked by not only earning her qualification Cum Laude but also receiving the prestigious Dean’s Merit Award for academic excellence at the DUT 2025 Autumn Graduation.

For Duma, the moment transformed sacrifices into celebration, and distant dreams into a powerful reality. She explained that her academic journey at DUT was not easy but it was deeply meaningful.

“I started off passionate but unsure. I knew I wanted to make a difference in the public sector, but I did not realise just how demanding and rewarding the path would be,” she reflected.
Over time, theory blended with real-life lessons. Long hours in lecture halls were matched by meaningful in-service training that gave her a glimpse into how public administration can improve lives on the ground.

Duma explained that her graduation was a victory not just for herself, but for everyone who supported her especially her mother.

“Graduating with Cum Laude and receiving the Dean’s Merit Award was not just my victory it belongs to my mother, my family, and every person who stood by me, there were days when the pressure was intense, but their belief in me kept me going,” she explained.

Duma credits the guidance of her lecturers like Dr Mabizela, Dr Nkabinde, and Mr Malinga for helping shape her thinking and drive. “They did not just teach, they inspired me to lead, to think critically, and to believe in ethical governance,” said Duma.

Currently she is pursuing her Advanced Diploma in Public Administration, and she is already looking ahead. She aims to work in government departments or NGOs, and one day, take her skills abroad to gain international experience and eventually return to South Africa to contribute to more effective, people-centred public policies.

To first-year students entering this path, Duma offered her heartfelt advice: “Pray, focus, ask questions, and visit home. Amandla alandwa ekhaya uma ephela, your strength is renewed at home. Don’t wait until final year to take things seriously. Every step matters,” said Duma.

Pictured: Mandy Duma.

Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.

Sinamile Sithole