The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Spring Graduation ceremonies got off to a thrilling start with the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at 09h00 today, 04 September 2019 at the Fred Crookes Sports Centre at the Steve Biko Campus.
The Fred Crookes Sports Centre erupted into unceasing cheers, ululations and applause as graduands graced the stage to be conferred with their well-deserved Diplomas and Degrees. The exquisite and striking fashion range was akin to the one normally witnessed in top fashion shows as graduands were dressed to impress in their designer and traditional attires.
During the Spring Graduation ceremonies over 1400 graduands will be conferred with their respective qualifications over six sessions between today (04 September) and tomorrow (05 September), which boasts more than 600 additional graduands in comparison to 2018 Spring Graduation graduands. Again this year, 52% of the total graduands are women.
Samukelisiwe Ntsele who was conferred with a National Diploma: Civil Engineering was over the moon after her impressive achievement.
She said despite facing many challenges, she is excited to finally obtain her qualification and she plans to further her studies going forward. “At some point I never thought I would see this day because of the challenges I encountered, I even contemplated giving up but through perseverance I managed to make it,” she said.
She also thanked her family and friends for their support during difficult times. “My parents were always very supportive and I’m grateful for their support,” she added.
Acting Executive Dean in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, Professor Paul Musonge congratulated the class of 2019 on their remarkable achievement and urged them to conquer the world of work and entrepreneurship.
“Graduates you leave the University assured that your qualifications are nationally and internationally recognised because we are fully accredited by various national and international accreditation and professional bodies. You can therefore compete nationally and internationally for work and study opportunities,” he said.
He also urged graduands to upskill themselves in order to remain relevant in this highly technological and disruptive era. “You have nothing to worry about because you have acquired the skills set that will enable you to adapt to any future developments,” he added.
Pictured: Graduates could not contain their excitement after the first session of the Spring Graduation ceremony today, 04 September 2019.
Nduduzo Ndlovu
