At just 23 years old, Issabu Bwanali from Willowfontein in Pietermaritzburg proudly graduated Cum Laude with an Advanced Diploma in Management Sciences in Human Resources and received the Dean’s Merit award recognition during the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremony held at the Indumiso Campus Hall in Pietermaritzburg on Tuesday, 12 May 2026.
Issabu is currently continuing his academic journey by pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma, proving that his passion for education and personal growth goes far beyond obtaining a qualification.
Issabu is one of the top-performing students in his department. He achieved first position in the department for three consecutive years and obtained the highest overall marks during those years. His discipline, consistency, and dedication to his studies ultimately led him to graduate cum laude while also receiving Dean’s Merit recognition.
His journey at DUT has been filled with unforgettable experiences that shaped him academically and personally. Throughout his studies, he actively participated in class representative activities through the Department of Applied Management, where he developed strong leadership skills and built confidence in serving others. His dedication and commitment have now earned him an opportunity to serve as a faculty representative, a role he considers both an honour and a reflection of his growth as a student leader.
“I did not think my journey would come this far, there were moments when I felt like giving up, especially when financial difficulties nearly ended my studies in 2026. I made a promise to myself that I am not going anywhere until my dream is complete, no matter what the storm is,” said Issabu.
Throughout his academic journey, Issabu says he was fortunate to have strong support from his family, especially financially. They assisted him with accommodation, transport, and food, allowing him to focus fully on his studies and continue striving for excellence.
“My family was extremely emotional and proud when they heard the news as they had witnessed all the sacrifices, stress, and sleepless nights behind my journey. Their support gave me strength to continue pushing forward,” said emotionally.
Despite his success, the road was not always smooth. During 2025, Issabu had to balance completing his Advanced Diploma while simultaneously undertaking an internship, which became overwhelming at times due to academic pressure, deadlines, and work responsibilities.
His passion for Human Resources comes from his genuine desire to work with and support people.
“I chose Human Resources because I enjoy understanding people and contributing positively within organisations, I want to become the best in the field both theoretically and practically,” he explained.
Issabu plans to continue with his studies towards obtaining a Master’s degree and hopes to become a highly skilled HR professional who contributes positively to employee development and organisational growth.
He also encouraged first-year students to remain disciplined and focused on their purpose.
“Students should never lose sight of why they came to university because university life can be challenging, but hard work, consistency, and self-belief can take you very far. Never give up on yourself because you did not get this far just to get this far,” he advised.
Pictured: Issabu Bwanali
Photography: S’bonelo Dlamini
Sinamile Sithole
