Nikiwe Magugu, intern in the Disability Rights Unit at the Durban University of Technology(DUT) has  achieved yet another academic milestone. She obtained her Postgraduate Diploma in Language Practise at the DUT Autumn Graduation ceremony, which was held at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban on Thursday, 21 May 2026.

Originally from eMndozo in Newcastle, Nikiwe currently supports students living with disabilities through administrative assistance, advocacy and student support services at the Disability Rights Unit. She also works as a Residence Advisor at Time Square Hotel Residence.

Speaking on her DUT journey, she indicated that she completed her Diploma in Language Practise in 2023, followed by an Advanced Diploma in 2024.

Magugu shared that her passion for Language Practise was inspired by the diversity within the discipline.

“What inspired me the most was the fact that my field of study involves a variety of studies ranging from interpreting, editing, media and communication studies. Completing my postgraduate studies puts me at a better chance of finding work and putting my skills to use,” she said.

Balancing work responsibilities and academic commitments was not without challenges. Working while studying required immense sacrifice and discipline from Nikiwe.

“Balancing my schoolwork while working was not an easy task, but I did it because I knew that I had to work hard and make sure that I rise above it all. I had to sacrifice a lot of my social life because I used my weekends as a way of catching up on my schoolwork,” she explained.

Her determination was deeply rooted in her desire to support her family and uplift others around her.

“One thing that has always kept me going was my desire to make sure my mom and my siblings are never short of anything. I like to help others where I can, and for me to be able to do that, I have to make sure that my cup is full at all times so I can pour for others,” she added.

One of the biggest obstacles she faced throughout her studies was financial difficulty, particularly historical student debt and securing funding opportunities.

“The enormous challenge I came across was having student debt and the struggle of finding a bursary to pay for my historical debt,” said Nikiwe.

Despite these challenges, she remained grounded in values that continue to guide her both personally and professionally.

“I highly associate myself with honesty, compassion and respect. As someone who works with students on and off campus, these values represent the core of how I should conduct myself in a working space,” she said.

Nikiwe credited her family for being a constant source of encouragement throughout her academic journey. She also expressed gratitude to her colleagues for their unwavering support.

Reflecting on the impact of her qualification, Nikiwe said her studies have strengthened both her confidence and communication skills.

Looking ahead, Nikiwe hopes to further her studies and pursue a future in teaching, particularly in interpreting, which she described as one of her strongest subjects.

Pictured: Nikiwe Magugu at her graduation.

Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile.

Simangele Zuma