The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Mahomed Cassim (21) from Phoenix, KwaZulu-Natal graduated Cum Laude and received the esteemed Dean’s Merit Award, this morning (Monday, 29 May 2023) for his Diploma in Hospitality Management at the Autumn Graduation ceremony held at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC).

Hospitality Management was Cassim’s first choice of study at DUT as he aspires to work abroad. He said that when he was a toddler, he used to watch cooking shows on the Television, and he knew from then that this was what he will do when he grows up, and to own a restaurant.

He shared that there were some challenges that he faced while he was studying for his Diploma.

“The COVID-19 was my biggest challenge I enjoyed only one month of university life, and just when I thought I have settled down to university life, COVID-19 came and changed so many things and my studies were almost affected,” he said.

His background inspired him to focus on his academics as he wants his family to live a better, stress-free life. He added that his parents, family, and friends are excited for him as they can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

“I am very proud of myself, and I am ecstatic about my achievement. I will knock on every door I can possibly find to provide my family the best life and, I aspire to work abroad,” he said.

The elated graduate expressed his excitement upon learning that he graduated Cum Laude, and attained the Dean’s Merit Award.

“It’s like a dream come true, I feel like my parents’ prayer were answered today. I shed some tears when I saw my parents excited about my achievement and this motivated me to come back next year and enrol for my Advanced Diploma,” he proudly said.

Pictured: Mahomed Cassim

Lethukuthula Ngubane