Returning to the Durban University of Technology (DUT) many years later to further his studies was the best choice for Khayelihle Buthelezi Ka Shenge who has once again obtained Cum Laude with his Bachelor of Technology in Civil Engineering (Specialising in Water Engineering). He will be graduating at DUT’s Virtual Autumn Graduation 2021 on Thursday, 27 May 2021.

In 2011, Buthelezi (35) from Ulundi, north of KwaZulu-Natal graduated with Cum Laude in his BTech in Chemical Engineering. He said it is amazing that 10 years later he will be graduating at DUT with Cum Laude once again.

It has been an incredible journey to say the least, not withstanding all the difficulties, sleepless nights, and lots of sacrifice. In the end it has been a very gratifying and rewarding experience,” said Buthelezi.

Even though he has achieved Cum Laude before, Buthelezi said he feels a huge sense of honour and this time it means so much more since he achieved it under different conditions.

“I have proved to myself again that even under trying conditions; I could still reach the highest levels of academic achievement. I cannot wait for my daughters to grow older and I can use such stories to inspire them. My family is very excited, happy and proud, especially them having been part of the journey, they know exactly what it took out of me and sometimes even out of them, they know how much I wanted this. I just wish my kids knew and understood what was going on, but they are still very young. I will definitely share the story with them one day; hopefully it inspires them to be great someday,” said Buthelezi.

Speaking about his choice if study, he said his teachers in matric advised him to consider engineering since he was good in maths and science. He said he then enrolled for Chemical Engineering at DUT and completed his BTech. He said he found himself working in the water sector where he discovered the different disciplines of Civil Engineering. Hence, he decided to study Civil/Water Engineering to propel his career further and follow what then became his passion.

Some of the challenges he faced during his studies, Buthelezi said was juggling another qualification through another institution. He said he also found it a bit challenging being a part time student unlike when he was a full-time student.

He said he plans to pursue a Master’s Degree in Water Resource Management while also having an interest in Management Sciences where he plans to pursue advance management diplomas. His eyes are also set on completing a Master in Business Administration at the right time.

“I have been in the water sector for some time now, my chosen path and area of interest is water resource management in the 4th industrial revolution, there are limitless possibilities. The end goal is to reach executive management levels, using technologies and solving problems that are plaguing the water sector,” he said.

Having an end goal in mind of what one wants to ultimately achieve, is what Buthelezi believes will assist current students wanting to complete engineering qualifications. He said this will pull the students through during the most difficult times. He said the end results are incredibly rewarding.

Pictured: Khayelihle Buthelezi Ka Shenge