After a decade long break from education, Nozipho Xolo returned to pursue her dreams, and her hard work has truly paid off. Her inspiring story serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to chase your goals. She graduated with her Advanced Diploma in Human Resource Management on Monday, 12 May 2025, at the Indumiso Hall in Pietermaritzburg. She received recognition for her outstanding achievement, receiving Cum Laude and the prestigious the Dean’s Merit Award.
A 40-year-old from Umlazi-KwaStambu, she has showed that age is not a barrier to learning and achieving goals. This inspiring example highlights the importance of opportunities and support, showing that personal growth and development can occur at any stage of life.
Reflecting on her journey at DUT, she praised the institution for nurturing her, and she credited her achievements to its supportive environment. She also mentioned that returning to study further was her aim to make a meaningful impact in the industry she is currently in.
“Graduating with Cum Laude and the Dean’s Merit Award was not easy, but I worked hard and dedicated my time to stay on track. Passing with good marks is a huge achievement for me, especially after countless sleepless nights, dedication, and overcoming hardships,” she said.
Sharing the challenges she had faced, she said that she had to familiarise herself with technology which required extensive research and dedication, proving to be a significant learning curve. Additionally, balancing work and school responsibilities posed another challenge, testing her time management skills and commitment to her goals.
According to her, the DUT living values and principles she resonates with are commitment, excellence, and honesty. She stated that excellence has been the cornerstone of her academic journey, and being in Human Resource Management as a profession, honesty is the biggest priority.
In advising the first-year student, she expressed that education is key to success, and learning to love and enjoy what you are doing is crucial for achieving success. She further mentioned that lecturers are the cornerstones of someone’s success, and obeying their guidance is essential. She also used herself as an example, stating that graduating with the Dean’s Merit was a result of her hard work, particularly by listening to lectures and diligently following her lecturers’ advice, which ultimately led to her achievement.
She concluded by expressing her excitement to walk across the stage on her big day, proudly celebrating her hard work and achievements.
Pictured: Nozipho Xolo
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
