The President of the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Student Representative Council (SRC), Sibusiso Gumede was among the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics graduates who were honoured for their academic excellence at the DUT Celebratory Autumn Graduation held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Durban International Convention Centre earlier today, Wednesday, 14 July 2022.

Gumede (25) originally from Dududu, KwaZulu-Natal South Coast but now residing at Folweni graduated with his Advanced Diploma in Taxation. He is currently pursuing his Postgraduate Diploma in Taxation and plans to commence with his Master’s studies, next year, 2023.

He urged the DUT students to look up to the current SRC leadership who are making sure that they successfully complete their studies and graduate. He proudly revealed that there are four SRC members who will be graduating in the Durban graduation ceremonies set to end on Wednesday, 20 July 2022.

“The SRC Treasury General opened the session on Tuesday, 13 July 2022 then I followed today. Two more SRC members are yet to graduate. What we can say is that the students need to take their studies seriously. Time management is very crucial in order for one to succeed,” said Gumede.

He expressed that it is hard for SRC members to juggle between taking care of ongoing student issues and having time for classes and assessments. Gumede indicated that in most cases they end up having little time for their studies and end up completing their assessment at the last minute.

“Besides worrying about our studies and passing, we also have to lookout for students. We have to make sure that those who are outside the university gain entry and that the all the needs of those inside are met. I am proud to say that above 50% of the SRC are graduating this year. This was also the case with last year’s SRC leadership. We as the SRC promote academic excellence as per the University’s ENVISION2030,” said Gumede.

His mother, Thulisile Gumede (51) pointed out she is very proud of her son and is certain that his future is bright.

“I could not hold back my tears when he walked on stage. He has made my proud. It was hard raising him, I was his mother and father. His father passed away when he was very young. I will him all the best and may he continue being a good leader,” said the mother.

She further revealed that she always fears for her son’s safety as the SRC President, fearing that he might be injured during the student protests. She also thanked God for protecting her son and giving him wisdom to lead the students.

Pictured: DUT SRC President, Sibusiso Gumede.

Simangele Zuma