Cedrick Nkosikhona Ngubane’s experience as a former Student Representative Council (SRC) member has come full circle as he prepares to graduate with a master’s degree focused on ethical leadership in student governance.
Ngubane will graduate with a Master of Management Sciences in Administration and Information Management from the Durban University of Technology (DUT), under the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, on Wednesday, 16 September 2026, at the Olive Convention Centre.
His interest in student governance began during his undergraduate years at DUT, where he served two consecutive terms on the SRC at the Midlands Campus. He served as Sport, Arts and Culture Officer from 2009 to 2010 before taking on the role of Education and Transformation Officer from 2010 to 2011.
His experience in student leadership gave him first-hand insight into the responsibilities that come with representing others and would later influence the direction of his postgraduate research.
“My experience as an SRC member taught me that leadership is not simply about holding a position. It is about serving others, making responsible decisions and understanding the impact those decisions can have on the people you represent,” said Ngubane.
Born in Mooi River and raised in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal, Ngubane matriculated from Drakensberg Secondary School in 2004. He initially worked as a petrol attendant before enrolling at DUT in 2007 to pursue a National Diploma in Office Management and Technology.
He graduated in 2010 and went on to complete a Bachelor’s Degree in the same field in 2012.
When he returned to DUT as a postgraduate student, Ngubane drew on his previous experience in student leadership to investigate ethical leadership within student governance.
His master’s research, titled “Ethical Leadership in Student Governance at a South African Higher Education Institution”, explored how student leaders can be better supported to lead responsibly and uphold ethical principles.
The study examined the development needs of student leaders, approaches to promoting ethical conduct and compliance, the application of Corporate Governance Theory, and stakeholder perspectives on strengthening ethical leadership within student governance.
“Coming back to student governance through research allowed me to look at leadership from a different perspective. I could reflect on my own experiences while also asking how we can better prepare student leaders to lead with integrity and accountability,” he said.
His findings highlighted the importance of continuous leadership development, mentorship and ethical training. The study also emphasised the need for student leaders to move beyond understanding ethical principles in theory and apply them consistently in their leadership roles, while strengthening accountability and resisting undue influences.
Among his recommendations were enhanced mentorship programmes, regular workshops and seminars, effective feedback mechanisms, the promotion of institutional values and the ongoing evaluation of governance practices.
The lessons from his research continue to inform Ngubane’s involvement in supporting students at DUT. As a Sports Driver, he transports student athletes to training sessions and competitions, while his role as a Residence Advisor allows him to support students through educational, social, religious and developmental programmes.
He also serves as an Advisor to the Insika Men’s Network, supporting initiatives focused on peer mentorship, responsible citizenship and positive masculinity.
Through these roles, Ngubane has remained closely involved in student development while pursuing his academic goals. His experiences have also reinforced the values he associates with his journey, including honesty, integrity, respect, commitment and excellence.
His path to graduation has not been without challenges. He pursued his postgraduate studies while navigating periods of unemployment and balancing his academic responsibilities with his spiritual commitments. He credits the support of his supervisors, family, friends and colleagues for helping him remain focused.
“The journey was not always easy, but the support I received from my supervisors, family, friends and colleagues reminded me to remain focused. Reaching this milestone has shown me the importance of perseverance and staying committed to the goal.”
Looking beyond his master’s degree, Ngubane plans to pursue a PhD and build a career in academia. He hopes to contribute to research and teaching while playing a role in developing future leaders.
“My goal is to continue growing academically and eventually pursue a PhD. I want to contribute to research and teaching in a way that helps develop responsible leaders who can make a meaningful contribution to their communities.”
Ngubane’s journey from SRC member to master’s researcher demonstrates how experiences in student leadership can continue to shape academic and professional journeys long after a term of office has ended. What began as an opportunity to serve fellow students ultimately became the foundation for research into how ethical leadership can be strengthened within higher education.
As he prepares to graduate, Ngubane hopes to use his academic knowledge, professional experience and continued involvement in student development to contribute to higher education, community development and the preparation of ethical future leaders.
Pictured: Cedrick Nkosikhona Ngubane
Sinamile Sithole
