“This has definitely been one of the toughest journeys of my life that I will cherish forever. I have learnt from many of my challenges and failures and triumphed through them all. I am grateful for all the hard lessons learnt and tough situations that has made me the person I am today. After looking back at my academic record from the Durban University of Technology (DUT), my dreams have turned into reality. This was definitely not an easy road,” said the elated Kimendren Gounden.
Gounden, who also featured in the top 100 students list of the ABSA Gradstar Awards 2020; will be graduating with his Bachelor of Technology in Mechanical Engineering (Cum Laude) from the Durban University of Technology, on 27 May 2021. The virtual graduation ceremony will be screened on the DUT website: www.dut.ac.za and on the DUT YouTube channel: DutCampusTv at 12h00.
He conveyed that despite the COVID-19 outbreak, with no contact classes he actually rose above the situation and gave it his best shot.
“I believe that ‘you shall reap what you sow’. It has also opened a window of belief that everything is possible through sheer determination and with a persevering attitude. This has led me to raise my standards in the future. I thank my family, friends and lecturers who have played a pivotal role in my success,” he said.
In a few years, Gounden would like to see himself working for one of the well-established companies and aspire towards a management and leadership position in the Mechanical Engineering sector. He also wants to fulfill his dream of becoming a successful mechanical engineer registered as a professional with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
“I like challenges and look at things from different perspectives so that we can get a better understanding about the entire situation as a whole and to come up with the best turn-around key solutions possible,” he said.
He also indicated that he wants to further his studies in the same field to get a deeper understanding of the Engineering industry as a whole.
“There are so many new innovations and advancement in technology that makes me want to keep abreast of current and new knowledge. I want to be,” he said.
Gounden said he would advise prospective students who want to study in the field of Mechanical Engineering, to be fully prepared to give off their best by being focused, driven, hard-working and dedicated to their studies. In order to be successful in their endeavours, they need to have a positive outlook on life and believe that nothing is impossible.
“We must also learn to believe in ourselves and to never give up,” he said.
Pictured: Kimendren Gounden
Waheeda Peters
