A young, aspiring academic, Siphiwe William (26) from Krugersdorp, Gauteng obtained his Degree of Master of Management Sciences Specialising in Hospitality and Tourism during the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation on Monday, 29 May 2023 at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC).
His journey at DUT dates back to 2015 when he got enrolled for his National Diploma in Tourism Management. There is no denial that William is a hard worker since in 2017 he was awarded an Erasmus Scholarship to Munich, Germany. In 2019, he completed his Bachelor of Technology degree in Tourism Management. His Master’s journey began in 2020. William believes that DUT is home to great academics, this propelled him to achieve what he has to date.
William believes that the good has definitely outweighed the bad in his academic journey as he aims to climb the academic ladder and go as high as he can. He also wishes to be a renowned South African Scholar and Author in Tourism and Hospitality.
His title of dissertation reads as:Promoting a technologically driven tourism industry post COVID-19. A case study of hotels in Durban, South Africa.
When he was asked why he chose Tourism as his first choice of study he said: “I loved Tourism since high school, that is where the passion developed. Tourism is a multifaceted industry and an industry full of possibilities. I want to use Tourism as a vehicle for local economic development in my community at home. Tourism is not just about studying but to also travel the world.”
When he told his family that he is graduating they were ecstatic, since they knew that this is a family achievement since he is the first graduate in the family and now the first with a Master’s degree. This marks a new chapter of the lives of his family and himself, filled with possibilities.
“It feels like a dream I am still processing the achievement. I am glad I never stopped studying, my next stop is the Red Gown, currently I am working on my PhD concept paper. I dedicate this chapter to my family as this marks a new chapter for us,” said William.
He thanked his family, colleagues, his beautiful mother and dad for supporting him on his academic journey. He believes that he would not have done this without the supervision of his supervisor Dr E Mnguni and co-supervisor Dr EO Anwana.
“Thank you so much for being courageous and taking decisions that put our family on the map, I could not be proud of you, my child. I am encouraging you to keep pushing, you just opened a new chapter for our family,” said Mrs William, Siphiwe’s mother.
William encouraged first years to define their goals as it is the key that will help to direct the energy towards motivating them but it all starts in one’s mind.
Pictured: Siphiwe William
Nomvelo Zulu
