The Durban University of Technology former Student Representative Council (SRC) Deputy President, Mr Bongani Mchunu, demonstrated exemplary leadership and a strong commitment to academic excellence during the opening of DUT’s 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremony. The ceremony took place at the Indumiso Hall in Pietermaritzburg on Monday, 12 May 2026.
Hailing from the rural area of KwasakwaMthethwa in eMpangeni, Mchunu successfully obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Ecotourism.
“My journey at the DUT has been interesting, challenging, and truly life changing. This journey has shaped me both academically and personally. One of the highlights of my journey was being elected Deputy President of the SRC from 2023 to 2025. Balancing leadership responsibilities with academics taught me resilience, discipline, accountability, and the importance of serving others. It also strengthened my communication, teamwork, and leadership skills,” he explained.
Sharing some of the challenges he faced as a student, Mchunu said balancing academics with SRC leadership responsibilities was not always easy. He also experienced financial pressures and had to manage stress while fulfilling both academic and leadership duties.
“There were moments when the workload became overwhelming, but I remained focused, disciplined, and committed to my goals. Those challenges taught me perseverance, time management, and the importance of staying motivated despite difficult circumstances,” he said.
When asked about the DUT Living Values and Principles, he associates with the most, Mchunu highlighted integrity, respect, accountability, commitment, and professionalism. He said that his journey as both a student leader and an academic taught him the importance of leading with honesty, respecting others, taking responsibility for his actions, and always remaining committed to his work and studies.
“My family was extremely proud and emotional when they heard the news. They have always supported and encouraged me throughout my journey, so this achievement means a lot not only to me, but also to them. They see it as a reward for all the sacrifices and hard work,” he expressed.
He mentioned that he has always been deeply passionate about tourism, environmental sustainability, and community development, as these areas play an important role in improving both people’s lives and the natural environment. His interest in tourism stems from the opportunity it provides for cultural exchange, economic growth, and the promotion of local destinations.
He strongly values environmental sustainability and believes that natural resources and ecosystems should be protected for future generations. He is also committed to community development and enjoys contributing to initiatives that empower local communities socially and economically.
“My career aim is to become a professional and influential leader in the tourism and environmental sector. I also aspire to contribute to sustainable tourism development, community empowerment, and youth development,” he explained.
He is currently involved in student leadership and community engagement initiatives, which have helped him gain valuable leadership, communication, and interpersonal experience.
He advised first-year students who want to pursue the same career to remain focused, disciplined, and passionate about their studies. He said that university life comes with many distractions and challenges, but consistency, hard work, and self-belief are very important. He also encouraged them to take opportunities to grow beyond the classroom through leadership and community involvement.
Pictured: Former SRC Deputy President, Mr Bongani Mchunu.
Photography: S’bonelo Dlamini
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
