Issabu Bwanali graduated Cum Laude and obtained a Deans Merit Award for his Diploma in Human Resource Management at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2025 Autumn Graduation Ceremony held at Indumiso campus in Pietermaritzburg on Monday, 12 May 2025.
Hailing from Willowfontein in Pietermaritzburg, Bwanali reflected on his university journey which was shaped by perseverance, growth, and a deep sense of purpose. Bwanali began his university journey in 2022, a time still shadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Starting university during lockdown was tough, the transition from high school was already a challenge but adapting to online learning platforms like Moodle and MS Teams, and adjusting to the pace of university was even more difficult,” said Bwanali.
Despite these initial struggles, Bwanali quickly emerged as a student leader. For three consecutive years, he served as class representative, a role that allowed him to support fellow students while sharpening his leadership skills.
“I’ve always enjoyed working with people listening, assisting, and creating a sense of unity. That’s what drew me to study Human Resources,” Bwanali explained.
His time at DUT was filled with meaningful experiences. He was part of a team that pioneered the first departmental orientation programme for the Applied Management Department, working closely with lecturers and the Head of Department, Professor Bongani Dlamini.
“Being trusted with something that had never been done before was an honour. We made history for our department,” shared Bwanali.
He also served as a tutor, supporting students academically, and found deep satisfaction in seeing others succeed. His efforts were recognised through multiple awards, including certificates for academic excellence, leadership, and entrepreneurship. For three years 2022, 2023, and 2024 he held the highest overall academic performance in his department.
However, his success was hard-earned. Bwanali faced significant financial struggles, including delays and issues with NSFAS, leaving him with outstanding fees.
“It was heartbreaking knowing I had worked so hard, yet I might not receive my certificate because of unpaid debt. But I kept going I could not let my circumstances define me,” said Bwanali.
For Bwanali, his greatest motivation has always been his family. “They believed in me, supported me, and reminded me of my purpose. Seeing them proud of my graduation is my biggest achievement. I did not do this journey just for me but I did it for them too,” Bwanali explained.
He is now enrolled in an Advanced Diploma in Human Resources, Bwanali has plans to go even further. “My long-term goal is to complete my Master’s, gain industry experience, and eventually build something of my own. Entrepreneurship is a big part of my vision,” said Bwanali.
He resonates most with the DUT values of honesty and respect, which were instilled in him from childhood. “My father always said, respect will take you far not just respect for others, but also how you carry yourself,” Bwanali explained.
To those just beginning their university journey, Bwanali offered this advice: “Stay focused, stay hungry. Never forget why you started, and no matter what life throws at you, do not give up. Keep your dream alive.”
Pictured: Top achiever, Issabu Bwanali with the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, Professor Melanie Laurens.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Sinamile Sithole
