Surrounded by proud peers and supporters at the Olive Convention Centre, 20-year-old Shreya Sukhnanan from Durban celebrated a major milestone as she graduated with a Diploma in Management Sciences in Business Law from the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2025 Autumn Graduation Ceremony held at the Olive Convention Centre on Thursday, 22 May 2025. Sukhnanan graduated Cum Laude and obtained the prestigious Dean’s Merits Award, marking a significant achievement as the first in her family to graduate.
Reflecting on her academic journey, Sukhnanan describes it as a powerful testament to her commitment and passion for Business Law. “My journey at DUT has been both enlightening and transformative yet challenging due to the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which transformed the first half of my first year of studies into an online learning experience. Despite the limitations of remote learning and the absence of direct engagement with my lecturers, I remained steadfast in my commitment to my education. I approached each virtual session as a vital opportunity for growth, ensuring that I maximised my learning and continued to cultivate my passion for Business law,” she explained.
Achieving Cum Laude and being the first in her family to graduate is a milestone that Sukhnanan holds close to her heart. “Receiving Cum Laude is more than an academic accomplishment it is a symbol of my dedication and perseverance. It validates the long hours and hard work I have invested, and it motivates me to continue striving for excellence,” she explained.
On DUT Living Values Sukhnanan mostly resonates herself with is integrity. “Integrity is fundamental, not only in academics but in life. I believe in doing the right thing even when no one is watching because it’s about making a positive difference, not seeking recognition,” she added.
Sukhnanan’s academic path was not always smooth. She navigated a demanding curriculum, tackled complex legal concepts, and worked hard to manage her time effectively. “These experiences taught me resilience, the importance of asking for help when needed, and staying committed even when things felt overwhelming,” she explained.
Her choice to pursue Business Law was guided by a strong interest in understanding the legal systems that support ethical and effective business operations. “The field perfectly merges my love for law with a strategic approach to business. It is allowed me to envision a career where I can contribute to sound corporate governance and ethical leadership,” she elaborated.
Now, with her Diploma complete, Sukhnanan is continuing her academic journey by pursuing a Degree in Human Resources. She hopes to use this qualification to help organisations navigate legal and ethical challenges, promote employee wellbeing, and build inclusive, sustainable, and values-driven workplaces.
Offering advice to first-year students, Sukhnanan encourages them to remain grounded and focused. “Put God at the centre of your studies. Stay disciplined and curious. Engage deeply with your coursework, seek guidance from mentors, and build a network of like-minded peers. And most importantly stay consistent. Hard work truly does pay off,” said Sukhnanan.
Sukhnanan also expressed deep gratitude to the people who supported her throughout her academic journey. “To my family and friends thank you for your unwavering support and encouragement. To the exceptional lecturers in the Department of Business Law, I am sincerely grateful for your guidance and dedication,” said Sukhnanan.
Pictured: Shreya Sukhnanan
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Sinamile Sithole
