DUT honours ‘National Treasure’ Dr Thembi Mtshali-Jones

SIMANGELE ZUMA

graduation special

Legendary actress, Dr Thembi Mtshali-Jones received a standing ovation when the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Chancellor, Ms Nonkululeko Nyembezi conferred her with the honorary Doctor of Philosophy in Visual Arts at the DUT Celebratory Autumn Graduation ceremony held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Durban International Convention Centre on Wednesday, 20 July 2022.

In his welcome address, the DUT Senior Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Alan Khan, revealed that during this graduation season, a total of 9081 graduates over 35 sessions, 12 days in Durban and Pietermaritzburg will walk the graduation stage. He excitedly introduced the Honorary Doctorate recipient, Dr Mtshali-Jones, who currently stars as MaNdlovu on ETV’s popular drama series, Imbewu: The Seed.

He further read Dr Mtshali-Jones citation, commencing with a brief background, revealing that she was born in 1949 and grew up in KwaMashu township in Durban. Mr Khan also pointed out how she was discovered by Welcome Msomi and had performed in the original Umabatha, the isiZulu adaptation of Macbeth in 70’s. Attendees were overwhelmed as they listened to Dr Mtshali-Jones life journey, noting her several national and international accolades throughout her stellar career.

Taking to the stage after obtaining her Honorary Doctorate, Dr Mtshali-Jones stated she was honoured to join the likes of the legends including; Jonathan Clegg, Sipho Mchunu, Welcome Bhodloza Nzimande, Ela Gandhi, Joseph Shabalala and Steve Biko, who have all received this privilege from DUT.

Expressing her appreciation to DUT for the recognition, Dr Mtshali-Jones said: “In 2011 my city, eThekwini, gave me a Living Legend Award and I would like to repeat the same words I made on that night. I have been highly decorated in almost all corners of the world where I have worked. This gave me a sense of achievement and pride. However, as it kept happening, I started to feel a sense of inadequacy. I had many questions I could not answer. As it happened then, I am now sure of where that emptiness stems from, despite being showered with all manners of praises and awards. The reason-being is that: no recognition, no matter how much weight and wealth it carries, can ever beat a simple gesture, such as a ‘thank you’ from your own city and more so, by a reputable institution such as DUT.”

The Executive Dean: Faculty of Arts and Design, Professor Runette Kruger, saluted Dr Mtshali-Jones for her sterling contribution to the world of Arts along with the other graduates for completing their qualifications with courage and perseverance. “Allow me to congratulate our Honorary Doctor, Dr Thembi Mtshali-Jones, who has inspired us with her many accolades, her journey to success through trials and tribulations. We appreciate her words of wisdom and encouragement shared with us today. It is an honour to add her to our DUT family,” said Prof Kruger

Dr Thembi Mtshali-Jones.