Amanda Ngcobo, a 21-year-old from Waterloo has demonstrated exceptional academic prowess and dedication to her studies. Enrolled in the Diploma of Accounting programme in 2022, Amanda excelled academically and took on a tutoring role, showcasing her commitment to her peers. The top performer in the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, celebrated her achievement at the DUT Autumn graduation ceremony on Tuesday, 13 May 2025, at Indumiso Campus.
Her greatest achievement was a testament of dedication as she graduated with Cum Laude, her hard work and perseverance has finally paid off.
It is was a greatest achievement graduating with Cum Laude, a testament to her hard work and dedication. Ngcobo had set her goal for herself in first year and was overjoyed to see it become a reality. This accomplishment was a reflection of Ngcobo’s academic excellence.
During her studies, Ngcobo faced academic pressure and time management challenges. She had to balance coursework, tests, group assignments, and exams, which often led to anxiety. However, her family support and encouragement played a vital role in her academic success.
“Challenges I faced as a student was academic pressure and time management. Having to manage coursework, tests, group assignments and exams requires lot of energy. At times I would feel lot of pressure and start having anxiety. Another challenge was time management, I have been struggling with time management since high school trying to balance my academics responsibilities with personal life,” she said.
She strongly associates herself with DUT’s values of integrity, respect, and accountability. As an Accounting professional, she believes integrity is essential, and respect is crucial for success. Her philosophy, “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu,” emphasises the importance of treating others with dignity. Amanda also stresses the significance of accountability in personal and professional growth.
She developed a passion for accounting in high school, attracted to its analytical aspects and promising career paths. Through research, she discovered the diverse opportunities in Accounting, finding the field intriguing and rewarding. Currently, she is pursuing studying further with her long-term goal is to become a qualified Forensic Accountant, specialising in IT and Financial Crime Investigation.
Ngcobo also advised students to set clear goals and define their objectives with a specific timeframe, helping them stay focused and directed in their career pursuits.
“You need to define your objectives and work towards achieving them, research extensively gets to know and learn about different types of accountants and the various career paths available. Believe in yourself and stay motivated all the time.
Pictured: Amanda Ngcobo
Thubelihle Dumakude
