The former President of South Africa, Mr Jacob Zuma graced the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2023 Autumn Graduation ceremony at the Olive Convention Centre on Thursday afternoon, 25 May 2023.

Zuma attended the session to show support to his daughter, Bridget Zuma and his niece, Philile Zuma who were awarded their National Diplomas in Taxation. There was excitement as he entered the graduation hall and sat in the front row alongside other proud parents who were there to celebrate their children’s academic achievements.

Conferring the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics degrees and awarding diplomas and certificates was the DUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thandwa Mthembu. He began by giving a warm welcome to Zuma and he pleaded with the students and parents to conduct themselves in a dignified manner and respect Zuma’s presence.

Zuma’s daughter, Bridget Zuma was excited when her name was called out on stage to receive her National Diploma in Taxation. She was all smiles as she walked across the stage and waved in excitement to her father who was clapping for her. His niece, Philile Zuma was also excited to see her uncle rooting for her on stage as she was awarded her diploma.

Delivering the congratulatory message and the vote of thanks was Professor Oludayo Olugbara, Executive Dean: Faculty of Accounting and Informatics at DUT, who applauded the graduates for their hard work and dedication to their studies. He urged them to be adaptive graduates who will participate productively in the development of the region, country and the world.

Prof Olugbara also shared his excitement on seeing Zuma amongst the parents who attended the session. He expressed that he was a huge fan of Zuma and that he first met him when he was conferred with his Doctoral degree at the University of Zululand few years ago. Prof Olugbara thanked Zuma for his attendance and wished him well in his future endeavors.

Sharing his excitement after the ceremony, Zuma said he was happy to see his daughter and niece graduating. He wished them well as they prepared for their job searching journey. Zuma said he cannot wait to see them gain their independence and enter the working world.

Pictured: Former President Jacob Zuma with his niece, Philile Zuma (left) and his daughter, Bridget Zuma (right) after the graduation ceremony.

Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile

Simangele Zuma