Cyril Ejidike (32), president of the Durban University of Technology (DUT) International Student Organisation (ISO), has undergone an amazing academic journey that has resulted in his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Construction Management and Quantity Surveying. On Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the Olive Convention Centre, he crossed the stage during the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment graduation ceremony.
With a strong passion for construction management and sustainability, Ejidike pursued his master’s degree in the Built Environment, specialising in Construction Management and Quantity Surveying. This programme not only deepened his knowledge but also instilled in him a desire to contribute meaningful solutions to real-world challenges.
Through his research, he aimed to address pressing global challenges, particularly in the building sector, which accounts for a significant portion of global energy consumption and carbon emissions. His study developed a simulation-based, multi-objective optimisation model for retrofitting educational buildings in Pietermaritzburg, combining IoT-based monitoring and survey data with statistical analyses.
The findings of his research revealed significant insights into the barriers and drivers influencing retrofitting adoption, as well as optimal retrofit measures for educational buildings. His work promotes climate-resilient retrofits aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11, 13, and 3.
He has shown a great dedication to ethics and excellence throughout his academic career. He based his approach to research, teaching, and community involvement on his belief that these ENVISION2023 Living Values are fundamental to academic and professional activities.
“Excellence resonates because I believe in doing my best in academic and professional endeavours. My journey at DUT, from my master’s to my PhD, has been characterised by a constant pursuit of high research, teaching, and leadership standards. For me, excellence is not just an outcome, but a habit based on consistent dedication and improvement,” he said.
As a part-time lecturer at DUT where he teaches undergraduate modules in construction studies, He is dedicated in sharing his knowledge and experience with students. His involvement in research and teaching allows him to contribute to knowledge building and student development, shaping the next generation of construction professionals and researchers.
“Having joined the Department of Civil Engineering and Construction Studies at DUT, my responsibilities include preparing and delivering lectures, guiding students through coursework, assessing their progress, and mentoring them academically. In addition to teaching, I continue to be actively involved in research. This combination of teaching and research allows me to contribute to knowledge building and student development,” said Ejidike.
His accomplishments go beyond the classroom. As the current president of the International Students Organisation (ISO), he has held a number of posts, showcasing his leadership abilities and dedication to volunteerism.
With his sights set on a career that combines teaching, research, and professional practice, Ejidike aspires to make a meaningful impact in his field. His advice to first-year students who want to embark in this career is to start with focus, discipline, and good study habits, building relationships with lecturers, senior students, and industry professionals.
Pictured: Cyril Ejidike
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Thubelihle Dumakude
