René Ravidutt has displayed a stellar performance as she was the only student in her class to graduate Cum Laudewith the prestigious Dean’s Merit Award for her Degree of Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Laboratory Science. She obtained 31 distinctions overall. Prior to this, she has been the top achiever in her class for three consecutive years.

She was honoured at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2025 Autumn Graduation Ceremony on Tuesday, 20 May 2025 at Olive Convention Centre (OCC) in Durban.

The 22-year-old hailing from Pinetown, Durban said this attainment was rewarding, and it reflected her determination and sacrifices.

“I am ecstatic at the prospect of graduating with a Dean’s Merit Award. It is very rewarding to know that all my hard work and sacrifices over the years have paid off. I often thought it was unattainable, but seeing God’s hand in every aspect of my life was a testament that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,’’ she added.

She began her tertiary education at DUT in 2021. The road to her success was extremely challenging, having to balance completing her internship and studies. However, with faith and dedication, she was able to overcome every hurdle she faced and she excelled.

Her family was elated at the news of her achievements, having witnessed the tremendous sacrifices made in her personal, social and family life as she prioritised her academics.

Presently, Ravidutt is employed as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Ampath Laboratories where she performs laboratory tests and analyses patient specimens to aid in the diagnosis of medical conditions.

Pictured: René Ravidutt.

Vukani Langa