The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Anele Buthelezi from Osizweni, Newcastle graduated Cum Laude for her Bachelor of Education: Natural Sciences at Indumiso Campus Hall this morning , (Monday) 15 May 2023.

The 22-year-old rejoices for her milestone achievement; however, she recalled the challenges she faced while she was pursuing her B.Ed. degree and she also gave an insight on how losing her grandmother affected her academics.

“The first few months of my studies, I had a challenge of interacting with other students. I had a low self-esteem. I made friends because there were group assignments and I had to do something. It was difficult to socially interact with others. I lost my grandmother on the 2nd week of my final year teaching practice. Earlier this year was the hardest time for me, but the learner’s attention made me to focus on the work than nursing the pain of losing someone that was very close to me,” she sadly said.

The Cum Laude graduate divulged that COVID-19 and the online learning almost cost her not to graduate because she was not used to technology and she would often struggle with network connectivity. She further added that she would watch YouTube videos for more computer skills.

Detailing her teaching passion, she was inspired by her Grade 12 teacher’s tactics and the attention she would give to them as learners. Furthermore, Buthelezi shared that her love for kids also instilled her passion for teaching.

The dedicated graduate expressed her excitement upon receiving the career defining moment of graduating Cum Laude.

 “I am ecstatic by my achievement; I was just excited that I would be graduating but when I later checked on my student portal and realised that I have achieved every students dream of graduating Cum Laude. I immediately called my friends and family to inform them of the great news. To God be the glory and this proves that you can achieve everything through hard work,” she proudly said.

Buthelezi wants to further her studies until she gets her PhD and she advised all first year students who are enrolled for Bachelor of Education to work on their self-esteem, mental health, and relationship with GOD. An Educator needs to be confident in the subject that they are teaching. In a classroom there are different learners with different attitudes which may be a challenge teaching them if you are mentally unstable.

Pictured: Anele Buthelezi

Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile

Lethukuthula Ngubane