For the first time in his life, Andile Masuku experienced the joy of gracing the graduation stage and it was no ordinary moment. The Student Development Officer in the Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Student Governance and Development unit proudly received his Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences, during the 2025 Spring Graduation ceremony, held at the Olive Convention Centre on Thursday, 18 September. The milestone not only marked his academic triumph but also a deeply personal celebration of perseverance and achievement.
Masuku (29) from Mondlo, Vryheid in the northern KwaZulu-Natal had previously attended virtual graduation ceremonies for two of his previous qualifications obtained at the DUT during COVID-19. In 2020, he first graduated Cum Laude for his Bachelor of Child and Youth Care degree and a year later, he obtained his Degree of Master of Health Sciences at the DUT Virtual Summer Graduation which was held in December 2021.
Sharing his excitement on gracing the graduation stage for the first time, Dr Masuku said: “This was my first time attending an in-person graduation since COVID-19; for both of my previous degrees, I graduated online. I was excited to walk across the stage and celebrate this achievement with my family, friends, and colleagues all in one place,” said Dr Masuku.
He joined DUT in 2016 as a student pursuing his undergraduate studies in the Faculty of Health Sciences and over the years he has persevered to become a staff member and has now become a DUT academic.
“Over the years, DUT has truly become a second home to me. Many people often ask why I have consistently chosen DUT for each stage of my academic development. The answer lies not only in the institution’s commitment to academic excellence but also in its supportive and student-friendly processes. Unlike what one may experience elsewhere, DUT’s systems are accessible,” shared Dr Masuku.
For Dr Masuku obtaining his PhD has been a great milestone from a rural boy to becoming an academic, striving to contribute to student development, holistic support, and student success.
From day one at DUT, Dr Masuku refused to let his background define his future. He has never allowed anyone to make him feel less or make him feel that his dreams were not valid.
His advice to students wishing to follow in his footsteps, Dr Masuku said: “Remember that whatever you want to achieve is in your hands, and the power to succeed lies within you. When you feel like giving up, know that resilience and strength are what will keep you going. Also, be mindful of the people you surround yourself with; avoid associating with those whose values and beliefs are not aligned with yours, as they can have a negative impact on you.”
His thesis was a framework of a cooperative approach between parents and teachers in reducing violence among high school learners in Lamontville, eThekwini District, KwaZulu-Natal. The aim of his study was to explore and describe violence amongst high school learners in order to develop a framework of a cooperative approach between parents and teachers to reduce violence amongst high school learners and ultimately enhance the management of school violence at Lamontville Township in eThekwini District, KwaZulu-Natal.
He is currently employed as a Student Development Officer under the Student Governance and Development unit within Student Services. His duties include initiating, implementing, and evaluating training and development programmes designed to enhance the leadership capacity of student leaders. He also promotes a vibrant campus life by organising and supporting campaigns and initiatives that enrich the overall quality of student life.
“I play a key role in the coordination and execution of the Student Representative Council (SRC) elections, including overseeing the entire electoral process and facilitating the inauguration of newly elected SRC members. Beyond elections, I provide ongoing guidance and support for the growth and effective functioning of various student structures, ensuring that both the SRC and affiliated clubs and societies are well-equipped to serve their constituencies,” added Dr Masuku.
He extended his gratitude to his family and supervisors to their support throughout his journey.
Pictured: Dr Andile Masuku.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile.
Simangele Zuma
