Durban University of technology accounting lecturer Dr Anita Hiralaal, was all smiles when she was awarded her PhD in Education (Teacher Development Studies) from the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Hiralaal overcame great obstacles to graduate. During her time as a doctoral student, she experienced major life challenges. In 2011, she suffered the loss of her husband and two years later she suffered a stroke which affected her eyesight and coordination.