An eThekwini Municipality worker, Siboniso Sabelo (43) from Umbumbulu has proven that lifelong learning, leadership and dedication to public service can shape meaningful change in society. Currently residing in Newlands West, Durban, Siboniso graduated with his third qualification, a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremony, held at the Olive Convention Centre on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.
Siboniso’s academic journey with DUT dates back to 26 years ago after he matriculated from Umlazi Comtech High School with a Bachelor Pass. He then enrolled at the institution, formerly known as Natal Technikon, to study Cost and Management Accounting. Inspired by his older cousin, who is also an alumna of DUT, Siboniso was drawn by the positive stories she shared about the university experience.
Years later, while employed in Local Government through eThekwini Municipality, he returned to DUT to further his studies in Public Administration to strengthen his professional knowledge and capabilities.
Reflecting on his journey, Siboniso said the support he received from lecturers, classmates and family played a major role in his success.
“Through this period, I’ve met excellent compatriots, both students and lecturers, who assisted me to achieve the level of understanding of the programme. My achievements today are a result of all their inputs, individually and collectively,” he said.
His mother and siblings have also remained a constant source of encouragement throughout his studies.
“While I lost my dad very early in life, my mother made sure to carry the torch and lead us by example. She has graduated with multiple degrees and inculcated the importance of education to all her children, who are also graduates in different fields,” he added.
During his postgraduate studies, Siboniso was entrusted by his classmates with the responsibility of serving as Class Representative, a role he embraced with integrity and professionalism.
Balancing work, family responsibilities and academic commitments was one of the greatest challenges throughout his studies. However, Siboniso credits the flexibility and support from lecturers, classmates and loved ones for helping him maintain that balance.
Adding to the excitement of graduation day, Siboniso revealed that his family was not aware that he was going to graduate Cum Laude and obtain the Dean’s Merit Award for academic excellence, they only discovered this exciting news during the graduation ceremony.
Looking ahead, Siboniso intends to continue pursuing further studies aligned with his evolving professional responsibilities in Local Government. He is passionate about contributing towards an efficient and professional public service sector.
“There are a lot of inefficiencies in Local Government administration, as reported by the growing value of Unauthorised, Irregular, Fruitless and Wasteful Expenditure in the Auditor-General’s reports every year. My aim is to contribute to achieving a functioning, professional and efficient public service as envisaged by Section 197 of the Constitution of South Africa,” he explained.
Pictured: Siboniso Sabelo.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Simangele Zuma
