Lungisa Phakathi from iTshelimnyama in Mariannhill, Pinetown, has already built an academic legacy that continues to inspire many young people. A proud student of the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Lungisa’s journey is one marked by resilience, discipline, faith, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
The 24-year old graduated with a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration from the Department of Entrepreneurial Studies and Management, marking yet another milestone in an already remarkable academic journey. He completed the qualification Cum Laude and received the prestigious Dean’s Merit Award for academic excellence during the graduation ceremony held on Monday, 25 May 2026, at the Olive Convention Centre.
His DUT journey began in 2021 after matriculating during the challenging COVID-19 period in 2020. DUT was his first choice institution, and Business Administration was his first choice course. What started as a dream soon became a life-changing academic journey.
“When I was in grade 12, it was during covid 2020 so I spent a lot times indoors because we were not attending so I had done research on what studies I can embark on around business, and business administration popped as first around that time so I had learned that with this qualification you are studying systems and functions of businesses and improving them. So then I thought to myself rather than starting with other courses and branching to business administration at a masters level let me study business administration from foundation as in the undergraduate degree and move up,” he said.
For Lungisa, receiving Dean’s Merit recognition at NQF Level 8 represents far more than academic achievement, it reflects years of discipline, consistency, and hard work. Having also earned Dean’s Merit in his Advanced Diploma, this accomplishment highlights his sustained commitment to excellence and determination to succeed at every stage of his academic journey.
“ This is a great feeling, well getting a dean’s merit at NQF level 8 is good, I worked so hard and the fact that this is my second dean’s merit truly shows how disciplined and focused I am. am truly grateful and I thank GOD for everything. The academic journey is a game and every time I play, I play to win,” he explained.
Despite his impressive achievements, Lungisa’s journey has not been without challenges. Behind the smiles and academic excellence was a young man battling stress, uncertainty, and depression.
He reveals that after his contract with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure ended, he faced a difficult period emotionally and financially while still trying to maintain academic excellence.
“I did not tell anyone while it was happening, but I was depressed and stressed because I was recently a graduate and my contract with the public sector (Department of Public Works and Infrastructure) had just ended so I did not know what to do and apart form that stress and anxiety I had academic stress,” he explained.
Instead of allowing adversity to define him, Lungisa used those experiences to grow stronger. His story highlights the silent battles many students face while pursuing success.
Family remains one of his greatest sources of motivation. Being the first graduate in his family is a title he carries with pride. He says his great-grandmother, who is nearing 88 years old, and his younger siblings are especially proud and inspired by his success.
Pictured: Lungisa Phakathi
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Thubelihle Dumakude
