The Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2026 Autumn Graduation Ceremony on Tuesday, 19 May 2026 will mark an unforgettable and emotional milestone for Acting Deputy Registrar and DUT Council member, Mr Vikesh Singh, and his family.
As part of his official responsibilities, Singh forms part of the academic procession and hooding of graduates during graduation, a role he has fulfilled for more than two decades. However, the Tuesday ceremony carried a deeply personal significance, as he had the honour of hooding his own son, Yashay Singh, who graduated with a Diploma in Information and Communication Technology in Application Development.
Acting Deputy Registrar, Mr Vikesh Singh had the opportunity to hood his son, Yashay Singh during his graduation.
Reflecting on the occasion, Singh shared that he has participated in graduation ceremonies for approximately 23 years in his various roles as Faculty Officer, Assistant Registrar and now Acting Deputy Registrar.
“Over the years, I had the privilege of witnessing thousands of students cross the graduation stage, but this moment was uniquely personal and incredibly emotional for me. To stand on the stage in my official capacity while simultaneously celebrating my son’s achievement was truly a proud full-circle moment. It represented not only academic success, but also perseverance, family support and the transformative power of higher education,” shared Singh.
For 22-year-old Yashay Singh from Durban, the occasion was equally meaningful. Having completed his qualification in 2025 at the age of 21, he has already developed a strong passion for software development, particularly in web and mobile application development. He is currently continuing his academic journey by pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Information and Communication Technology in Application Development at DUT.
During his studies, Yashay worked on several projects that strengthened his programming, problem-solving and teamwork skills, while further motivating him to pursue a career in the IT industry.
“Graduating was a very proud and emotional milestone for me. This journey required dedication, discipline and many late nights of studying and completing projects, so reaching this point feels incredibly rewarding,” said Yashay.
What made the moment even more special for him was the opportunity to be hooded by his father.
“My dad has been part of the academic procession for many years, so to share the moment together felt truly special and surreal. It was a full-circle moment for both of us, as a parent who supported and encouraged me throughout my studies, and as a university leader who celebrates the achievements of students every year,” added Yashay.
He also acknowledged the important role his mother, Mrs Nirvana Singh, played throughout his academic journey.
“I am deeply grateful to my mom for her constant motivation, encouragement and belief in me throughout my studies. This achievement was not just mine, but a proud moment for our entire family.”
The Singh family’s story beautifully reflected the values celebrated during graduation season, dedication, resilience, academic excellence and the importance of family support. For Mr Vikesh Singh, this year’s Autumn Graduation Ceremony will remain one of the most memorable moments of his professional and personal life.
“As a parent, seeing your child succeed academically is one of life’s greatest rewards. To personally hood my son on stage made this occasion even more meaningful, a memory our family will cherish forever,” said Singh.
Pictured: The Acting Deputy Registrar and DUT Council member, Mr Vikesh Singh with his son, Yashay Singh during the DUT Autumn Graduation.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile.
Waheeda Peters
