Former president Jacob Zuma attended the graduation ceremony of his daughter Bridget Zuma and niece Philile Zuma at the Olive Convention Centre on Thursday afternoon. The two graduates were awarded their national diplomas in taxation from the Durban University of Technology (DUT), during the 2023 autumn graduation ceremony.

 

DUT released a statement on Thursday, stating that there was excitement as Zuma entered the graduation hall and sat in the front row alongside other proud parents who were there to celebrate their children’s academic achievements.

The university started with the warm welcome to former president Jacob Zuma, and asked the students and their parents to respect Zuma’s attendance in the graduation ceremony.

“Zuma’s daughter, Bridget Zuma was excited when her name was called out on stage to receive her national diploma in taxation. She was all smiles as she walked across the stage and waved in excitement to her father who was clapping for her. His niece, Philile Zuma was also excited to see her uncle rooting for her on stage as she was awarded her diploma”. The university said.

Delivery the congratulatory message and the vote of thanks was professor Oludayo Olugbara, Executive Dean: Faculty of accounting and informatics at DUT.

According to the university, Olugbara applauded the graduates for their hard work and dedication to their studies. They are invited to become adaptable graduates who will benefit local, national and global development.

DUT said Olugbara shared the joy of seeing Zuma among the parents who attended the session. He said he is a big fan of Zuma and first met him a few years ago when he was doing his doctorate at the University of Zululand.