From humble beginnings to academic excellence, Parfait Ishami Niyo’s journey is a powerful story of resilience, determination, and ambition. Originally from Rwanda and raised in South Africa, the 21-year-old graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Electronic Engineering at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), earning the prestigious Cum Laude and Dean’s Merit recognition.
He was celebrated during the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment session, on Thursday, 22 May 2026 at the Olive Convention Centre.
His passion for engineering began during his time at a technical high school, where he was introduced to different engineering fields. After discovering Electronic Engineering, he knew he had found the right path. His achievement reflects years of sacrifice, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
“My journey at DUT has been both challenging and rewarding. It required resilience, consistency, and discipline. There were many highs and lows, but every challenge helped me grow academically and personally,” he explained.
Throughout his studies, Parfait distinguished himself not only in the classroom but also in innovation and leadership. One of the highlights of his academic career was receiving the Best Performing Student 2023 award, a milestone that motivated him to continue striving for greatness. He also participated in innovation competitions, including winning his first hackathon at DUT and later competing successfully in the BRICS Innovation Challenge.
For him, graduating Cum Laude with Deans Merit is more than just an academic recognition. It is a symbol of perseverance and proof that dedication eventually pays off.
“Graduating with Cum laude and Dean’s Merit is a dream come true and a reminder that hard work truly pays off. It is an achievement that makes me proud, not only because of the recognition, but because it reflects the sacrifices, discipline, and perseverance that went into earning it. There were many moments when the journey felt difficult, but this achievement serves as proof that consistency and determination can lead to success. I am grateful to God, my family, my lecturers, and everyone who supported me along the way,” he said.
Despite his achievements, the journey was not without obstacles. Financial pressure was one of the greatest challenges he faced as a student, particularly the uncertainty around registration and tuition fees each year. However, instead of discouraging him, those difficulties became a source of motivation.
“One of the biggest challenges I faced was financial pressure, particularly the struggle to secure registration and tuition fees each year. This often created uncertainty, but it also motivated me to work harder and not take the opportunity to study for granted. Like many students, I also faced academic pressure and the challenge of balancing deadlines, projects, and personal responsibilities. Through these experiences, I learned resilience, discipline, and perseverance,” he explained.
Parfait credits much of his success to his family, who remained his biggest support system throughout his academic journey. Their reaction to his achievements made the moment even more meaningful.
Today, Parfait is already building his professional career as a Broadcast Engineer while planning to further his studies in the future. He believes that education is a lifelong journey and hopes to continue deepening his knowledge in engineering and innovation.
“My goal is to use technology to solve real-world problems and contribute meaningfully to society. I want to create systems and solutions that improve lives, both locally and globally,” he concluded.
As a young African engineer with global aspirations, Parfait’s story stands as an inspiration to many students who dream of overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
Pictured: Parfait Ishami Niyo
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Thubelihle Dumakude
