A remarkable milestone for Shivani Raghunanan who graduated Cum Laude for her Bachelor of Health in Medical Laboratory Sciences with 23 distinctions at the Durban University of Technology (DUT). The ceremony was held on Tuesday, 20 May 2025, at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC) in Durban.
Raghunanan’s academic success brought immense joy and pride to her family as she is the first one to graduate. She was delighted that her hard work and dedication finally paid off.
“Graduating with Cum Laude not only marks a personal milestone for me, but it also represents a historic moment in my family, as I am the first to graduate and enter the medical field,’ she described.
The 24-year-old from Phoenix, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal highlighted that her achievement reflects years of hard work, determination and many late nights of studying.
“I am proud of my accomplishment and I am grateful and feel blessed,’’ she stated.
Her journey at DUT began in 2021, amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The first two years of her studies were conducted online which tested her adaptability and resilience. Despite these hurdles, she remained committed to her goal of becoming a medical laboratory scientist.
She said that she chose to study at DUT because of its strong reputation for equipping students with the practical skills needed for the workplace. Additionally, she mentioned that the DUT ENVISION2030 living values that has guided her academic journey which are compassion, excellence and commitment. She claimed that these values inspired her to lead with kindness, aim for the highest standards. Stay dedicated to her goals despite the challenges she had faced.
Although her journey seems exciting, she had to endure various challenges and amongst those it was funding. In her first two years she had no funding and to overcome this, she started a small business called Classic Parties, using the little allowance from her parents. The business helped her to cover tuition fees and travel expenses. This experience taught Raghunanan time management and entrepreneurship skills. It reinforced her ability to thrive under pressure.
She revealed that her family has been her biggest inspiration and pillar of support throughout her academic success even though they never had an opportunity to pursue tertiary education.
Currently, Raghunanan is employed full-time at Lancet laboratories as a Medical Laboratory Scientist. Her role involves conducting diagnostic tests and analysing samples to assist in patient care and treatment.
Next year, she plans to pursue Master’s Degree in Medical Laboratory Science. She believes that continuous learning is essential in the healthcare field to keep up with advancements in technology and laboratory practices.
To any first-year students considering Medical Laboratory Science, S Raghunanan said that for them to succeed they need to be passionate about the healthcare industry because this field demands commitment, discipline, and attention to detail. “Embrace the journey with confidence and persistence,” she said.
Pictured: Shivani Raghunanan
Vukani Langa
