The former Miss Durban University of Technology (DUT) 2016, Lungile Ngcobo who was born and bred in Willowfontein in Pietermaritzburg graduated for her Master’s degree in Management Sciences specialising in Administration and Information Management at the DUT 2023 Autumn Graduation ceremony at Indumiso Campus Hall, on Monday night (15 May 2023).
Ngcobo is currently serving as an Acting Student Life Officer under the DUT Student Governance and Development unit. She had an amazing journey studying at DUT and is eager to further her studies even more.
“In 2012, I was enrolled for Extended Curriculum (ECP) Programme at the Department of Management Sciences. In 2016 I became Miss DUT and also graduated for my Diploma in Management Sciences. In 2017 I represented DUT in a national beauty pageant competition, Miss South Africa Campuses and I won. In April 2017, I graduated for a Bachelor Degree of Technology in Management Sciences. In the same year I also went to represent DUT and South Africa in Miss World University and was awarded as the best dressed and peace ambassador. I started working at DUT in 2018 as a Student Helper, the following year I became an intern, thereafter an Admin Assistant at Student Governance and Development and I’m currently an Acting Student Life Officer,” explained Ngcobo.
She expressed that this qualification is a stepping stone to where she wants to be and her main aim is to inspire young women within the community of Willowfontein and ensure that they break all boundaries. In addition, Ngcobo explained that there are many opportunities for young people however if one does not develop themselves, it’s difficult to achieve their goals.
“I am currently working on registering for my Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and want to become a specialist in the recruitment of prospective students in Higher Education. I am encouraged by the growth and advancement within our institution which has put us in an advantageous position as graduates. Our country’s economy is slowly deteriorating and requires graduates that are innovative and able to identify gaps and fill them. Entrepreneurship is always emphasized by the institution and that we need to become job creators than job seekers. An eye opener lately has been the DUT Living Values Framework. It has assisted me in understanding my role in the society and how to treat others with respect and compassion,” explained Ngcobo
She went on to extend gratitude to her family members, supervisor Dr Cynthia Dongwe as well a Co-Supervisor Dr Steven Parbanath for the support. According to Ngcobo she has learnt a lot throughout this journey, although it was not easy but with commitment and perseverance finally she is celebrating the hard work and dedication of this achievement.
Pictured: Lungile Ngcobo
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Zanele Mashaba
