At just 23 years old, Sinethemba Ndlovu from Matatiele in the Eastern Cape proudly walked across the stage as she graduated during the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2026 Autumn Graduation Ceremony held at the Indumiso Campus in Pietermaritzburg on Monday, 11 May 2026. She successfully completed her Bachelor of Education in Senior and Further Education and Training under the Natural Sciences stream, specialising in Life Sciences and Mathematics.
Her goal was not only to pursue her studies but also to inspire her younger sister to believe that with determination and hard work, anything is possible. She said graduating with cum laude and the Dean’s Merit Award required dedication, perseverance and believing in her own journey. Ndlovu also mentioned that she hopes to empower young girls in the Eastern Cape by showing them that education is the key that can open many doors and create better opportunities for their future.
She described her achievement as rewarding because it represents the hard work, sleepless nights and sacrifices she made throughout her academic journey.
“My family felt very happy and proud of me when they heard the news about my graduation. They saw the hard work, sacrifices and challenges I went through during my academic journey, so this achievement meant a lot to them as well. I am also proud that I can serve as a role model to my little sister who is currently doing matric, because I want her to believe that through hard work, determination and faith, anything is possible,” she added.
Her academic journey was not always easy, as she had faced personal and emotional challenges along the way, but she remained committed to achieving her dream of becoming a teacher. She described her university experience as both wonderful and bittersweet, as it shaped her into a stronger individual while also introducing her to supportive friends and mentors who encouraged her throughout her studies.
“My transition to DUT was not easy at first because I came from a different environment and had to adjust to a new academic system and lifestyle. There were times when I felt overwhelmed and homesick, especially while trying to balance academic pressure with personal challenges. However, with time, I adapted by staying disciplined, asking for help when necessary, surrounding myself with supportive friends and remaining focused on my goals,” she explained.
She shared that she strongly associates herself with the DUT values of respect and integrity. She believes respect is important in building healthy relationships regardless of people’s backgrounds or positions. Throughout her journey at DUT, she learned to respect lecturers, classmates and herself as a future educator.
Ndlovu also highlighted that during her third year, she participated in the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) project titled “Introduction to Research in Mathematics Education.” She said the experience motivated and encouraged her to further her studies in the future.
“I would advise first years to work hard no matter the circumstances; there will be challenges but they do not define the future. I believe that through discipline and focus one can succeed,” she added.
She expressed her deep gratitude to her friends, lecturers and family for their support and encouragement throughout her journey. She concluded that her achievement stood as a symbol of hope and perseverance for young people who are going through difficult circumstances in life.
Pictured: Sinethemba Ndlovu
Photography: S’bonelo Dlamini
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
