The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Student Representative Council (SRC) Deputy President, Bongani Mchunu led by example and promoted academic excellence at the opening of DUT’s 2024 Autumn Graduation ceremony, which was held at the Indumiso campus, Pietermaritzburg on Monday, 13 May 2024.
DUT SRC Deputy President, Bongani Mchunu.
Mchunu from KwesakwaMthethwa, eMpangeni obtained his Bachelor of Education degree in Senior Phase and Further Training Teaching in Natural Science, specialising in Mathematics and Information Technology.
There was excitement as he graced the graduation stage, dressed in his isiZulu traditional attire. Students, staff, family and friends cheered for him congratulating him for his achievement.
Speaking after graduation, the student activist praised DUT for affording him the opportunity to engage in various academic activities within the institution which broadened his horizons and shaped his personal and professional growth. One of the challenges he faced was prioritising between academics and organisational commitments.
“As a student, I encountered various challenges, including balancing academic commitments with student leadership, managing time effectively, and overcoming occasional academic setbacks. However, each challenge served as an opportunity for learning and personal development,” he said.
Mchunu is currently enrolled for his Postgraduate Diploma in Ecotourism at DUT, with the hope of reaching a PhD level in the future. His passion for working with diverse learners is what inspired his academic journey.
“Bachelor of Education was my choice of study because teaching is a deeply rewarding profession that provides opportunities for personal and professional growth. I enjoy the challenges and rewards of working with diverse learners, developing innovative teaching strategies, and continuously learning and evolving as an educator,” he excitedly shared.
He is looking forward to applying the knowledge and skills he has gained to make a positive impact in his future endeavours.
DUT Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, Mr Muziwolaka Mchunu and DUT SRC Deputy President, Bonging Mchunu.
His father, Muziwolaka Mchunu expressed his excitement on his last born son as he received his Bachelor of Education degree.
“I was very proud when I saw him walking up the graduation stage. He is not only leading by example at DUT but also at home. May he continue being an inspiration even to our future generations within the family. I am glad that being an SRC Deputy President didn’t deter him from achieving success in his studies,” said the proud Mchunu.
Pictured: SRC Deputy President, Bongani Mchunu.
Samkelo Biyela/Thubelihle Dumakude
