Chloé Andrea Warwick, a 24-year-old Durban resident, has achieved academic excellence by completing her Bachelor of Health Sciences in Chiropractic at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) and receiving the prestigious Dean’s Merit award. She graduated at the Olive Convention Centre on Tuesday, 20 May 2025.

Her academic journey was marked by challenges and rewards, as she navigated the demands of her degree amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and adapting to a rapidly changing academic environment.

“During the first two years, COVID-19 impacted our studies on campus, and led to many changes and challenges given the practical nature of our degree. Returning to campus was also daunting, and we all had to adapt quickly to the change,” she explained.

Warwick’s journey at DUT was not without its obstacles. She faced significant stress, loneliness, and financial uncertainty, particularly in her third and fourth years. Despite these challenges, she persevered and excelled in her studies, earning her degree with Cum Laude and the Dean’s Merit award. Warwick attributes her success to her hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence.

“Dealing with financial challenges, I spent so much time worrying how I was going to pay for my studies, and while DUT and NSFAS both provided me with bursaries throughout the years, it was very challenging and stressful not knowing if they would, and I put so much pressure on myself to perform well academically in case they didn’t. Dealing with the uncertainty on campus was also a challenge, being traumatised by strikes and protests also added to my stress levels,” said Warwick.

Throughout the years, Warwick associated herself with the DUT values of respect and principles of commitment and excellence. She believes that respecting everyone and striving for excellence are essential principles that guided her academic journey.

Driven by her passion for healthcare, Warwick is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Chiropractic at DUT, with plans to establish her own practice, delivering high-quality, patient-focused care.

Pictured: Chloé Andrea Warwick

Photographer: Thobela Khumalo

Thubelihle Dumakude