Malusi Gabriel Biyela, a 28-year-old from Mandlankala in Empangeni, proudly walked across the stage at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, 24 May 2025, held at the Olive Convention Centre. He graduated Cum Laude with a Master of Accounting degree an achievement that marks the culmination of a long and determined academic journey.
Biyela’s road to success was far from easy. His journey at DUT began in 2019, and from the onset, he faced a series of obstacles. He attempted multiple times to register for his master’s degree, but his research proposals were repeatedly rejected. He kept on trying his proposal was finally approved, allowing him to officially register for a Master’s in Financial Accounting. Despite the setbacks, Biyela remained persistent and never gave up on his dream.
Graduating Cum Laude is a moment of great pride for Biyela, who described the feeling as overwhelming and deeply fulfilling. “I am overjoyed and proud to be amongst graduates who have achieved Cum Laude. It is a dream come true. After three years of hard work and sleepless nights, I have finally made it. Indeed, with God, everything is possible,” he said beaming with gratitude and joy.
As a dedicated accounting professional, Biyela strongly aligns with DUT’s values of integrity and accountability, as well as the principles of professionalism and excellence. He believes that striving for the highest standards of quality and achievement is essential in both academic and professional life. These values have guided him throughout his studies and continue to shape his career.
However, the journey was not without its difficulties. Time management was one of the biggest challenges he had faced, as balancing the heavy workload of a master’s degree including research and dissertation writing with personal responsibilities proved to be demanding. Financial strain also added pressure in the early stages of his studies, particularly before he had received a scholarship to help with his travel and living expenses.
When the news of his graduation reached his family, they were overcome with joy. “My family was speechless and excited. Even the pastor from our church joined us to celebrate and give thanks to God. It was such a joyous moment,” he shared. This graduation marked the second time someone in his family has achieved a master’s degree, adding to the pride of the occasion.
Biyela’s passion for Financial Accounting has been clear from the start. When he had first registered at DUT, he was initially placed in the Cost and Management Accounting programme. However, he insisted on transferring to the National Diploma in Accounting programme, determined to follow his true interest. Today, that passion continues to drive him forward.
He is currently employed as a Budget Accountant at Maphumulo Local Municipality, but his ambitions reach even higher. He is already working on a PhD research proposal and dreams of becoming a professor, publishing academic papers, and supervising students. “My aim is to be a professor, publish as many papers as possible, and supervise a lot of students,” he said with determination.
To first-year students aspiring to succeed in the accounting field, Biyela offers valuable advice: “Surround yourself with mentors who will guide you on how to succeed in the accounting sector and survive university life. Always make sure your work is done on time, and do not stop at undergraduate studies postgraduate qualifications are essential in today’s competitive job market.”
As he celebrates his remarkable achievement, Biyela also pays tribute to his late mother, who passed away when he was just eight years old. “She was a pre-school teacher, and her life lessons have shaped the man I am today. May she continue to rest in peace,” he said.
Pictured: Biyela Malusi
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Sinamile Sithole
