For Sithabile Thandeka Thungo (30) who is from Ulundi (Umhlahlane Reserve), her journey at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) has been one of dedication, perseverance, and a sheer passion for language and communication.
The dynamic wordsmith graduated Cum Laude for her master’s degree at Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2025 Autumn Graduation Ceremony. The dynamic event took place at the Olive Convention Centre, Durban.
Her journey at DUT has been more than just an academic pursuit; it has been a transformative experience that has shaped her skills, perspective, and aspirations. As she continues on this path, she remains committed to excellence, lifelong learning, and making a lasting impact in the field of language and communication.
“Pursuing a master’s degree was a new challenge, one that demanded deeper critical thinking, rigorous research, and intellectual growth. It was an opportunity to push boundaries, contribute meaningful knowledge to my field, and refine my expertise. While the journey was demanding, I was motivated by the knowledge that I am capable of achieving great results through perseverance and commitment,” she conveyed ecstatically.
More than that, Thungo, sentimentally shared that it serves as a reminder that excellence is not a destination but a continuous pursuit-one that she is eager to embrace every step of the way.
Thungo highlighted on my sterling journey at DUT , saying that it all began in 2015 when she had embarked on her academic path, enrolling in the Language Practice programme. “From the very beginning, I was committed to excellence, and in 2017, I proudly completed my qualification Cum Laude,” she expressed jubilantly.
Determined to further her knowledge, she pursued her BTech in Language Practice in 2018. Her hard work and commitment paid off once again as she had also graduated with Cum Laude and was honoured with the prestigious Dean’s Merit award.
“These achievements were not just academic milestones but a testament to my love for the field and my eagerness to make a meaningful contribution,” confessed Thungo.
In 2020, she had the privilege of giving back to the institution that shaped her by working as a Teaching Assistant in the Media, Language, and Communication department. This experience allowed Thungo to mentor students and assist in fostering a deep appreciation for language and media studies.
“It was an enriching period that reinforced my passion for academia and the transformative power of education,” replied Thungo.
Currently, she is part of the Research Office at DUT, working as a copy editor. “This role enables me to refine and enhance academic writing, ensuring that research is communicated effectively and professionally. Every day, I get to engage with diverse scholarly works, contributing to the advancement of knowledge at the university,” revealed Thungo.
With her dynamic love for looking at ways to improve proficiency and fluency in speaking, writing, reading, and listening; bore fruit to her academic dissertation where she sought to find out the challenges of offering IsiZulu as a First Additional Language: a case study of the Durban based High Schools, KwaZulu-Natal.
“This study focused on teaching IsiZulu as a foreign/additional language (FAL) to non-native speakers, addressing the difficulties faced by educators and learners.
“The study revealed that while many educators and learners acknowledge the importance of IsiZulu, attitudes toward the language vary. Key challenges include inadequate teacher training, negative learner attitudes, lack of educational resources, and ineffective evaluation methods. Participants emphasised the need for improved teacher training and better teaching materials to enhance learning outcomes,” she emphasised.
Thungo indicated that the study provides valuable insights into language-in-education planning in South African high schools.
“By identifying critical challenges and proposing solutions, it contributes to efforts aimed at improving indigenous language education and ensuring that languages like IsiZulu receive adequate support in diverse learning environments,” she relayed.
Thungo signified that DUT’s values closely aligns with her academic and professional journey, particularly excellence, accountability, integrity, and professionalism. She emphasised that she has consistently strived for excellence, as seen in her Cum Laude achievements, and she has upheld accountability throughout her studies and professional roles, ensuring high standards in her work as a teaching assistant and copy editor.
“Integrity has been central to my approach, as I prioritised ethical conduct and fairness in research and academia. Additionally, professionalism has guided me in being reliable, respectful, and dedicated to my responsibilities. These values shaped my commitment to continuous growth and academic excellence, ultimately leading to the successful completion of my master’s degree and preparing me for future career opportunities,” she reiterated.
Thungo noted that she had some challenges in her academic journey, one of them being to transition from undergraduate to postgraduate studies which required a shift in critical thinking and research skills. The depth of analysis and level of academic writing expected at higher levels, added Thungo, meant continuously refining her approach to research, structuring arguments effectively, and ensuring clarity in her writing.
“My family’s reaction to my academic achievements was one of immense pride and joy. My parents and loved ones expressed their pride in different ways, from heartfelt words of encouragement to small gestures of celebration. It was a moment of deep gratitude for me, knowing that I had made them proud,” she beamed.
Thungo commented that Language Practice is a field with diverse opportunities, whether in academia, publishing, media, or research. She knew that this qualification would open doors to different career paths while allowing her to stay connected to her love for languages.
Currently, Thungo is working on her PhD proposal, which she intend to register for in 2026.
“My career aspirations revolve around becoming a leading expert in language, editing, and research development. I aim to refine and enhance academic and professional writing, contribute to scholarly research, and potentially take on a leadership role in academia, research offices, or publishing,” she said.
Thungo reinforced that with a strong passion for mentorship, teaching, and research support, she hopes to guide students and professionals while continuously expanding her own expertise.
“Ultimately, my goal is to make a lasting impact by shaping policies, advancing knowledge production, and elevating the quality of academic writing and research,” she added.
Thungo offers sterling advice to a first-year student pursuing a career in Language Practice, which is to build a strong foundation in writing, editing, and communication while actively seeking practical experience through student publications or freelance work.
“Read widely, refine your writing skills, and network with mentors and professionals for guidance. Stay adaptable to new trends in language and research, and most importantly, believe in your abilities, challenges will arise, but with dedication and passion, success in academia, publishing, or research is within reach,” she expressed.
Thungos gave immense thanks to her supervisors, family, friends and colleagues for their tremendous support. “The journey was not easy but worth every sweat and tears,” she concluded.
Pictured: Sithabile Thandeka Thungo
Waheeda Peters
