Keirra Samsunder had a very challenging start of her academic journey. Her first year was right in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, the pandemic did not deter her aspirations, she shared.

‘’My journey began amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The initial year and a half of my studies were spent navigating online learning, with only practical sessions at the nursery providing in-person contact. Despite the absence of face-to-face interactions with lecturers, I remained committed to my studies, ensuring each virtual session was a platform for focused learning,’’ she said.

Samsunder, accompanied by her family, rocked the graduation stage and obtained her Diploma in Sustainable Horticulture and Landscaping at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2024 Autumn Graduation ceremony, held at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban, on Tuesday, 21 May 2024.

Reflecting on her Dean’s Merit award attainment, the excited Samsunder shared that she was surprised and grateful for her success.

‘’I am absolutely amazed and grateful to see my hard work of a challenging three years finally paying off. Graduating Cum Laude has been such an amazing achievement in my academic career, I could not be more happier,’’ she said.

The Durban born lass also appreciated her family, DUT lecturers and classmates for contributing massively to her academic success. “My family has been there throughout my journey. I cannot afford to not mention my lecturers and classmates. I could have not achieved this without their full support,’’ she said.

The 21-year-old hailing from Malvern, Durban highlighted that honesty, respect and accountability are among the DUT ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles that she aligns herself with.

“They drive me to advocate for equal opportunities, stay dedicated to my goals and pursue continuous improvement and achievement in all aspects of my academic endeavours. These values and principles shape my character and guide my interactions within the academic community, paving the way for growth and excellence,’’ she said.

She is currently enrolled for her Advanced Diploma in Sustainable Horticulture, with aspirations of doing a Postgraduate Diploma next year and reaching a PhD level. She further aspires to fulfil her research passion to make meaningful contributions to the field and exploration in the realm of sustainable horticulture.

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Pictured: Keirra Samsunder

Vukani Langa