Ntombifuthi Sithole (27)) from Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, walked the stage proud as she graduated Cum Laude for her Advanced Diploma in Management Sciences specialising in Operations Management at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Autumn Graduation. The ceremony took place at the Olive Convention Centre on Saturday, 25 May 2024.

One of the biggest challenges she faced was having to juggle between work and classes. However, with the help of her amazing lecturers, the shift gradually got better. Her family was filled with joy and she directed her gratitude to them for their unwavering support and motivation.

“Finding out that I was graduating Cum Laude was surreal, it had never happened before in my family and I was grateful to be the first one to bring this achievement home. My plan was to excel in my studies the best I could, but I had outdid myself by obtaining Cum Laude and I was very proud of myself,” shared Sithole.

Sithole is currently working as a Technician at a company called Diversey which inspired her to enrol for her Advanced Diploma.

“I was already equipped technically, but now I had goal to elevate my career and be in the decision-making level. I watched myself grow in my workplace as I was doing the course, and the content of the course fitted perfectly,” she said.

The adaptive graduate aims to acquire necessary skills to be an exceptional leader that will assist the company that she works for to run efficient production and produce the maximum profit. She is looking forward to pursuing her Postgraduate Diploma at DUT.

Advising first year students who wants to embark on the same career, she said that they should commit themselves to their studies and always remember why they started.

“Attending classes is very important, use tutors provided to you by institution and ask as many questions as you want. Do research about other courses that can help you elevate your skills,” concluded Sithole.

Pictured: Ntombifuthi Sithole.

Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.

Patience Makhaye