Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Nkululeko Mbatha is proud to be among the graduands for the upcoming DUT 2026 Spring Graduation.
Mbatha serves as a Communications Assistant in the Communications Unit within Corporate Affairs. Alongside his professional responsibilities, he successfully balanced full-time employment with postgraduate studies, culminating in a Master of Management Sciences in Business Administration.
“Graduating with my master’s degree is both humbling and rewarding. It represents years of hard work, perseverance and personal growth. Completing a research degree while balancing full-time employment required discipline, resilience and many sacrifices, making this milestone even more meaningful,” he said.
For Mbatha, the achievement is not only a personal accomplishment but also a reminder that determination and consistency can help overcome even the most demanding challenges.
“I hope my journey inspires other students, particularly those from rural communities, to believe in their abilities and pursue their academic aspirations with confidence,” he said.
Mbatha hails from Ulundi and is currently residing in Durban.
His dissertation, titled Survival and Growth Strategies Adopted by SMEs During the COVID-19 Era in eThekwini Metropolitan Area, explored how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) navigated the unprecedented challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic while seeking to remain sustainable and pursue growth.
The study examined the strategies adopted by SMEs in the eThekwini Metropolitan Area to survive, adapt and pursue growth during and after the pandemic.
“Using a quantitative research approach, data were collected from SME owners and managers to identify the operational, financial, digital and strategic interventions that contributed to business resilience. The study aimed to develop practical recommendations that can assist SMEs in preparing for future disruptions and improving their long-term sustainability,” he said.
His findings showed that SMEs that embraced digital transformation, diversified their revenue streams, strengthened customer engagement, adapted their operations and formed strategic partnerships were better positioned to survive and recover from the effects of the pandemic.
“The study also highlighted the importance of crisis preparedness, innovation and continuous business adaptability,” he said.
For Mbatha, the research reinforced the importance of adaptability and resilience, qualities that have also characterised his own academic and professional journey.
His journey at DUT has been one of growth and continuous development. He first enrolled for a National Diploma in Public Relations Management, followed by a Bachelor of Technology in Public Relations Management. He has now added a Master of Management Sciences in Business Administration to his academic achievements.
“Beyond my academic journey, DUT has shaped me professionally and personally. As both a staff member and student, I have been afforded opportunities to contribute to the institution through communications, student leadership, entrepreneurship initiatives and community engagement. Completing my Master’s degree represents the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance and continuous learning,” he said.
Communications Manager, Tiyani Mboweni, congratulated Nkululeko on his achievement, commending his professionalism, commitment and dedication to his work and studies.
“Nkululeko, congratulations on reaching this important milestone. Balancing full-time work with postgraduate studies requires discipline, commitment and sacrifice, and you have shown that throughout this journey. Your professionalism, willingness to learn and commitment to your responsibilities have been evident in your work at DUT. I am pleased to see you achieve this milestone and wish you well as you continue with your academic journey and pursue your PhD,” said Mboweni.
Mbatha strongly identifies with the DUT values of Excellence, Integrity, Respect and Commitment, which he says have guided him throughout his academic and professional journey.
“Excellence has always motivated me to strive for the highest standard in both my academic and professional pursuits. Integrity reminds me to remain ethical, honest and accountable in everything I do. Respect has enabled me to build meaningful relationships with students, mentors, academics and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds. Above all, Commitment reflects my determination to persevere, remain disciplined and fulfil every responsibility, even when faced with challenges. These values have guided me throughout my journey and continue to shape the person and professional I aspire to be,” he said.
One of his greatest challenges was balancing full-time employment with postgraduate studies. Managing demanding work responsibilities alongside postgraduate research required discipline, effective time management and personal sacrifice.
The research process itself was also demanding, particularly responding to reviewers’ and examiners’ feedback and refining the dissertation through several rounds of revisions.
“The research process itself was also demanding, particularly responding to reviewers’ and examiners’ feedback and refining the dissertation through several rounds of revisions. However, those challenges ultimately strengthened my resilience and improved the quality of my work,” he said.
Despite the demands of the journey, Mbatha drew strength from the support of his family.
Obtaining his Master’s degree was a proud moment not only for him, but also for his family, who witnessed the sacrifices, long hours and commitment required to reach this milestone.
“They have witnessed the sacrifices, long hours and determination that went into completing this degree. Their encouragement throughout the journey kept me motivated, making this achievement one that belongs to all of us,” he said.
For Mbatha, however, this milestone is not the end of his academic journey. He plans to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), specialising in entrepreneurship.
His continued pursuit of knowledge reflects the same determination and consistency that carried him through his Master’s degree, qualities he hopes will continue to guide his professional and academic growth.
Pictured: Nkululeko Mbatha
Waheeda Peters
