Diaksha Goovindoosamy (22) from Chatsworth in Durban received her qualification in Bachelor of Health Sciences: Medical laboratory Science at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremony.
The cherry on the top for Diaksha was graduating Cum Laude and receiving the Dean’s Merit award.
Receiving my degree and accolades is an honour that I am incredibly grateful for. It was a culmination of hard work, determination and a great support system. A high value has always been placed on education, and I am proud and humbled by these accomplishments,” she beamed.
She further expressed her sincerest gratitude to her lecturers, trainers, family and friends in helping her achieve this milestone.
Guided by the fundamental values of honesty, integrity and accountability, affirmed by DUT, forms an inherent part of her everyday life. “These values guide both my personal conduct and my responsibilities as a healthcare worker,” she explained.
Currently, Diaksha is employed at Ampath Laboratories where she performs diagnostic testing on patient samples to support accurate disease detection, monitoring and clinical decision making.
Diaksha shared that DUT provided her with a structured learning environment that made the transition from high school to university easier. The institution provided her with the tools needed from inception to conclusion of her degree. “It was a journey filled with challenges, adapting and constant learning. Throughout my studies at DUT, I learned the importance of discipline, perseverance and consistency. There were many demanding moments, especially balancing academic pressure, practical training and research responsibilities while still making time for myself, family and friends but each challenge helped me grow both personally and professionally,” she highlighted.
No academic journey is without challenges which Diaksha says were trying at times. One of the biggest challenges she had faced was trying to maintain strong academic performance while working full time, keeping up with research deadlines and making time for personal responsibilities. “There were times where I was overwhelmed, but I learned the importance of time management and concentrated on setting aside time for both my personal and academic obligations,” she emphasised.
For Diaksha, she has always had a strong interest in science and healthcare. Growing up, she frequently watched medical shows, and she was particularly intrigued by the professionals working behind the scenes in the laboratory. “When I discovered this course, I was excited by the opportunity to pursue a career that combined my passion for science with the ability to contribute meaningfully to healthcare,” she relayed.
Her goal is to ultimately build a successful career within the medical laboratory and healthcare sector while also contributing to research that can improve patient outcomes and public health practices. “I hope to continue developing my skills, gain valuable industry experience, and eventually contribute to advancing diagnostic and research capabilities,” she said.
Imparting her advice to a first year who wants to embark on the same career, Diaksha says that effective time management is the key to successfully navigating this course.
“It is important to maintain a healthy balance between academic responsibilities and personal well-being. Make the most of every learning opportunity, ask questions, and never hesitate to seek help when needed,” she happily shared.
Pictured: Diaksha Goovindoosamy
Waheeda Peters
