Cebolenkosi Dladla’s outstanding academic performance earned him a recognition at the Faculty of Applied Sciences, as he excelled by achieving Cum Laude with the prestigious Dean’s Merit Award in his Diploma in Analytical Chemistry. His success demonstrated a strong work ethic and an unwavering dedication to achieving his goals.

His graduation at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC) in Durban on Monday, 19 May 2025, marked a remarkable moment as the first in his family to achieve Cum Laude and Dean’s Merit Award for academic excellence. The ceremony was filled with excitement, joy, and a tremendous sense of accomplishment.

His journey at DUT started from 2022 where he had no clue on what he would be doing, he also mentioned that his mother encouraged him to study and be an example to his community. He said, on his first-year the passion took it place. He finished his Diploma in 2024, where he explained that it was not an easy journey, it had obstacles however, he managed  to excel against all odds.

The DUT living values and principles that deeply resonated with him were Respect, accountability, Compassion, Excellence, and Commitment. She emphasised that these values held significant meaning, reflecting his upbringing in a family that prized respect. Moreover, he credited excellence as the driving force behind his achievements.

“Graduating Cum Laude and Dean’s Merit was not a walk in the park. I had to put in hard work, sacrifice sleep, and dedicate my time. And now, it’s paid off. I am the only graduate in my field to earn this distinction which is Cum Laude. Some say being enrolled in the faculty of applied sciences is tough, but I would say it’s even more challenging. Yet, I am living proof that with determination, you can achieve greatness,” he explained.

Dladla advised first-year students to listen their lectures and avoid being influenced by peers. By listening attentively, they can reap the rewards of their efforts. His DUT experience helped him to grow personally and academically, thanks to the expert guidance of professional lecturers. As a Dean’s Merit Award holder, Dladla also emphasised that DUT fosters academic excellence, with his own achievements serving as testament.

He also shared that he had started his in-service training at Tongaat Hulett Sugar in 2024,  and had  become permanently employed as a Shift Sampler. “Lecturer at DUT had been the pillar by showing their supports and guided me as I will apply what I have learned during this years and I am happy to contribute in the industry as a young shift sampler,” Dladla concluded.

Pictured: The outstanding performer, Cebolenkosi Dladla on his DUT 2025 Autumn Graduation at Olive Convention Centre.

Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini

Phiwayinkosi Sibiya