Her father was a constant source of encouragement, urging her to focus on her studies. Indeed, her father’s guidance had a profound impact on shaping her future. Zama Zulu (30) graduated Cum Laude with Dean’s Merit Award at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2025 Autumn Graduation Ceremony. The ceremony was held on Wednesday, 21 May 2025 at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC) in Durban.
Sharing her journey at DUT has been one of growth and perseverance. She began her studies with a National Diploma in Public Management, continued with a Degree of Bachelor of Technology in Public Management with Cum Laude, and she graduated with a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration, all from ML Sultan campus. DUT has not only shaped her professionally but also helped her grow spiritually and mentally. She has had the privilege of learning from dedicated lecturers and working with peers who challenged and inspired her.
Revealing the DUT living values, she resonates with, Zulu explained that Integrity guided her academic journey and helped her to stay true to her values, even in difficult moments. Throughout her journey, staying true to her goal, working honestly, and upholding academic ethics played a significant role in her success.
“Graduating with Cum Laude is a deeply humbling moment and a true blessing for me. It reflects countless hours of hard work, discipline, and perseverance. This achievement is not mine alone, it’s a tribute to everyone who supported me along the way, especially my late father. He always dreamed of seeing his children succeed academically, as he never had the opportunity to attend school himself. This moment honours his dreams, his sacrifices, and his unwavering belief in us. I carry this achievement in his memory and with deep gratitude for the values he instilled in me,” she explained.
“My family was overwhelmed with joy and pride when they heard I would be graduating again. Everyone immediately said they would be attending the ceremony with me. They are incredibly proud and continue to encourage me to study further and aim higher,” she added.
According to Zulu, her ultimate career goal was to serve in a leadership role within the public sector, where she could help shape ethical, accountable, and effective governance. She wanted to contribute to improving service delivery and ensuring that public resources were managed with integrity and fairness. She also had a passion for mentorship and empowerment, and she hoped to one day create platforms that would support young professionals especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, so they too could thrive in their careers and studies. With God’s guidance, she aimed to be a leader who served with excellence, compassion, and vision.
Currently, she said she was employed at the eThekwini Municipality as an Executive Secretary under the eThekwini Transport Authority Unit. She was not yet where she ultimately wanted to be, but she was truly grateful for where she was right now. This role had allowed her to apply her academic knowledge in real-world public-sector environments. It had provided valuable hands-on experience and deepened her understanding of how public administration functioned in practice.
“The road ahead won’t be easy but stay focused on your purpose and keep your eyes on the prize. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek help when you need it , that’s what you’re here for and Build a strong support network of peers, mentors, and advisors who can guide you along the way. And make the most of the resources and opportunities that DUT offers, they’re there to help you succeed. I am living proof that with hard work and determination, you can achieve your goals,” she concluded.
Pictured: Zama Zulu oh her second graduation at the DUT Autumn Graduation Ceremony #Stampedwithpossibilities
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
