In promoting academic excellence, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Student Representative Council (SRC) member Mhleli Zuma has achieved a remarkable milestone by completing his honours degree in Information and Communication Technology. He graduated during the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics session held at the Olive Convention Centre on Saturday, 24 May 2025.

 Hailing from Pietermaritzburg, His  journey at DUT has been transformative and fulfilling, marked by leadership roles, academic excellence, and personal growth.

As the Accommodation Officer in the office of the SRC, Zuma has gained valuable experience in leadership, advocacy, and student development. He has learned invaluable lessons in time management, accountability, and perseverance, which have shaped him into a committed and responsible individual.

Despite facing challenges such as mental pressure and juggling multiple responsibilities, Zuma’s resolve and resilience have been strengthened. His late uncle’s words of encouragement have remained with him, motivating him to further his studies. His  family was overjoyed when he shared the news of his graduation. Their unwavering support has been his foundation, and this achievement, he indicated, belongs just as much to them

“I faced mental pressure and the difficulty of juggling many responsibilities. However, these experiences only strengthened my resolve and built my resilience,” he explained.

The 24-year old resonates strongly with DUT’s core values of integrity, honesty, and respect. These values have guided his approach to leadership, academics, and every day interactions with fellow students.

“I most strongly resonate with integrity, honesty, and respect. These values have guided my approach to leadership, academics, and everyday interactions with fellow students. They have shaped me into someone who is committed to ethical service, lifelong learning, and striving for positive impact in every space I occupy,” said Zuma.

Although ICT was initially his second choice of study, his passion for technology and its transformative potential has solidified it as the right path. Currently pursuing his master’s degree in ICT, conducting academic research, and exploring emerging technologies, Zuma’s career aspiration is to become a leading expert in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital transformation.

Pictured: Mhleli Zuma

Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini

Thubelihle Dumakude