Second time scholarship recipient Mr Kyran Otto’s consistency in academic excellence is proof that hard work pays off. The final-year Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting student who received the Malegapuru W. Makgoba Scholarship at the 2023 Scholarship’s Awards Ceremony was awarded the Deputy Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship at this year’s ceremony.
For Otto, receiving these scholarships is living testament to the power of hard work and determination.
‘I believe that being awarded these scholarships is the University’s vote of confidence in my academic capabilities,’ said Otto.
The top achiever is not just focused on his studies; he’s also making his mark as the President of the UKZN Pietermaritzburg Golden Key Committee while serving as a class representative for multiple modules. He said the scholarship has provided significant financial relief, allowing him to concentrate fully on his academic goals.
‘I cannot begin to express the inner peace that stems from knowing that one’s fee account is settled in full,’ he said.
Otto is committed to continue maintaining a high level of focus as he completes the final stretch of his studies. Looking ahead, he plans to further his education and become a Chartered Accountant.
‘I will pursue my Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting next year, followed by my articles at Deloitte from 2026.’
He hopes to leverage the fact that his qualification is accredited by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), a globally recognised credential that comes with studying at UKZN, to assist others in need of financial health and compliance assistance.
‘I intend to use my qualifications to be a symbol of hope to other people,’ he said.
Words: Samukelisiwe Cele
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini