The Durban University of Technology Autumn Graduation Ceremony, held at the Olive Convention Centre on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, marked a proud and emotional milestone for 21-year-old Luyanda Magubane from Mayville, Durban, who graduated Cum Laude and received the prestigious Dean’s Merit Award for her Diploma in Public Administration in Local Government Management.
For Luyanda, the achievement represents years of sacrifice, determination, and faith. Luyanda describes herself as an ambivert someone who enjoys her own company but can also connect well with others. Although she now celebrates academic excellence, her journey at DUT began with uncertainty and fear.
“My first day at DUT felt surreal. I was excited but also scared, am short and petite, and people often assume I am younger than I really am. I was worried that I might being overlooked or even bullied,” she explained.
Behind her success were financial and personal challenges that often remained unseen. Luyanda was not funded by NSFAS and had to rely on her family to pay for her studies, placing immense pressure on her parents.
“I went through my entire first year without seeing my exam results because of outstanding fees. It was painful because there was nothing I could do unless the fees were paid,” she explained.
Determined to change her circumstances, she worked tirelessly to maintain strong academic results and eventually qualified for a USAS bursary awarded to students who achieve an average above 75%.
“That bursary changed everything for us. It reduced the financial burden on my parents and motivated me to continue striving for excellence,” she said.
Known among her peers for offering academic support and encouragement, Luyanda says compassion became one of the most important lessons she learned at university.
While many people view university life as exciting and glamorous, Luyanda says the reality requires balance, discipline, and consistency.
“University starts slowly, but once test week arrives, everything moves very fast. Being a full-time student is rewarding but exhausting at times. You have to stay committed and focused,” said Luyanda.
One of the most touching parts of her achievement is that she kept her Cum Laude graduation and Dean’s Merit Award a secret from her family because she wanted to surprise them on graduation day.
“I know they are going to be so proud because their sacrifices, support, and hard work did not go to waste,” she said.
Today, Luyanda hopes to become a researcher focused on innovation, technology, and economic development in South Africa. She also dreams of creating programmes that empower young girls to become confident, ambitious, and purposeful.
“I want young girls to understand that commitment and confidence can change their lives. Every choice has consequences, so it is important to stay focused on your goals,” she said.
As the first university graduate in her family, Luyanda says the moment carries deep meaning not only for herself, but for future generations in her family.
“I am proud to say that I am the first graduate in my family. I opened the door so my siblings can dream even bigger than I did,” she explained.
Her advice to fellow students is simple yet powerful.
“Start early, ask for help when you are struggling, and never compare your journey to someone else’s. Build relationships with lecturers and seniors, prioritise your mental health, rest when you need to, and remember to enjoy the journey too,” she advised.
Pictured: Luyanda Magubane
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Sinamile Sithole
