Durban University of Technology (DUT) student Nikyle Kuarlal, (22) from Phoenix will be graduating Cum Laude in the Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Laboratory Science at the DUT Celebratory Autumn Graduation Ceremony at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC), on Wednesday, 20 July 2022.

Kuarlal’s journey at DUT began in 2018 when he enrolled in the Bachelor of Health Sciences: Medical Laboratory Science. The first two years of his studies were manageable with a fair share of ups and downs. However, the COVID-19 hit on his third year of study, and things got way harder for him, especially adjusting to the online lectures. Things got much better in the fourth year of his studies when he was doing his internship at the National Health Laboratory Service at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital.

Funny enough Kuarlal never knew that such a course existed at DUT. He originally applied for Medicine and Pharmacology, however during his matric year he attended the DUT Open Day and that’s where he found out that this course exists. Seeing the microscope excited him even more because it was one of his interests and learning that it was incooperated with the medical field was the cherry on top. He always wanted to be a part of the medical field from a very young age and this course helped him get there in a way he found deeply interesting.

“It was such a surreal moment finding out that I am graduating Cum Laude. During my first year I obtained few distinctions and dreamed about obtaining Cum Laude in future. However, as the years went by the papers got tougher, the dream slowly faded away. So to finally have this dream come true means so much to me,” said an ecstatic Kuarlal.

Kuarlal’s family have also played a part and always been his biggest support system. They always encourage him to work hard and make them proud of his achievements. When they found out about him achieving Cum Laude they were overjoyed and could not wait to share the news with others.

Kaurlal believes that if people better understand the diseases and organisms that effect humans then there will be a way of treating and saving more lives. Futuristically, he hopes to be a part of an organisation that allows him to focus on research and do his part to help.

“To students who would like to enrol in the Medical Laboratory Science course, love what you are doing, if you are passionate about Medical Laboratory Science then you will enjoy it so much because this course has a lot to offer. Also never be afraid to ask for help. At times things can seem daunting and overwhelming but the lecturers are understanding and are always willing to help. Another advice is to get into groups with fellow classmates, to split up the work and to help make tasks and tutorials more manageable,” said Kaurlal.

Also, Kuarlal expressed that he plans to further his studies and eventually obtain his Doctorate, something he promised his late grandfather.

Pictured : Nikyle Kaurlal

Nomvelo Zulu