It was a proud moment for mkhulu, James Mhlongo (92) from Matshematshe at Msinga, KwaZulu-Natal who had witnessed his grandson, Bongani Mhlongo obtain his Diploma in Accounting at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2024 Autumn Graduation ceremony. The prestigious ceremony took place at the Indumiso campus, Pietermaritzburg on Monday, 13 May 2024.

Mkhulu Mhlongo attracted lots of attention at the ceremony as he came dressed in a graduation attire and waited patiently to see his grandson walk the graduation stage.

Speaking about wearing the graduation attire he had worn to the event, mkhulu Mhlongo said it was his way of showing respect to his grandson. He thanked God for giving him the opportunity to witness this ‘historical’ moment for his family. He indicated that the graduation gown he was wearing was his which he had worn when he had graduated at his church, the Ethopian Church in Zion, few years ago.

“We are very proud of him. He is the first graduate in the family. I cried tears of joy when I saw him walking on the graduation stage. I am so happy that he didn’t forget our teachings when he got to DUT. He remained humble and as a result, he is being rewarded today. I wish him all the best, he is our hope,” said mkhulu Mhlongo.

The new graduate, Bongani Mhlongo expressed his appreciation to his grandfather for making his graduation extra special. He thanked his family for their continuous support and for sharing his special day with him.

“My wish is to get a job so I can be able to build a better home for my family. This qualification is a sign of good things to come for my family. Indeed, education is our only hope out of poverty,” said Mhlongo.

Pictured: Mkhulu James Mhlongo with his grandson, Bongani Mhlongo.

Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.

Simangele Zuma