Jaedon Naidu graduates summa cum laude as UKZN's top performing graduate of 2025
Jaedon Naidu graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, earning the highest credit-weighted average across the entire University
Image: Sethu Dlamini
Jaedon Naidu has etched his name in history as the top-performing graduate at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), having graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree.
His stellar achievement is underscored by an impressive credit-weighted average (CWA) of 96.2 percent—an accolade that places him at the forefront of academic excellence for the class of 2025.
What sets Naidu apart is the remarkable breadth of his studies encompassed by a rare triple major in Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science.
His commitment to learning saw him achieve 100% in nine modules, alongside earning five Dean's Commendations and a phenomenal 25 Certificates of Merit throughout his academic career.
Naidu's journey into the world of academia began at an early age when he and his brother were approached by Professor Delia North, the then Dean and Head of the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science at UKZN.
She encouraged the duo to explore data science as a viable career path—an opportunity that would ultimately shape Naidu's future.
Initially enrolled in UKZN's Medical programme, Naidu quickly discovered that his true passion lay within the blend of subjects that defined the Data Science programme.
'I changed to the Data Science programme which combines mathematics, statistics and computer science, and realised it was exactly what I was looking for,' he stated, reflecting on the pivotal choice that changed the course of his career.
Throughout his undergraduate studies, Naidu exhibited a natural affinity for modules that demanded logical reasoning and creative problem-solving, preferring them over rote memorisation.
'I don't really enjoy memorising large amounts of theory; problem-solving is more enjoyable for me—like a puzzle,' he said, pointing to the aspects of learning that fuelled his thirst for knowledge.
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Jaedon Naidu at his graduation
Image: Sethu Dlamini
Naidu's passion for data science has deep roots, having begun during childhood with participation in national and international Olympiads in mathematics, computer programming, and physics. These formative experiences cultivated his analytical thinking and solidified his belief that data science could have a transformative effect in various industries.
'As the world evolves, data science is going to become even more high profile, no matter the industry,' he explained, acknowledging the job security the field offers.
Currently enrolled in an honours programme in Statistics at UKZN, Naidu aims to further his studies, pondering whether to pursue his master's degree locally or overseas. He attributes his academic success to a robust support system consisting of family and mentors who played critical roles in his development.
'First and foremost, I credit God for the combination of my talents and an environment in which to nurture them,' he confessed. 'My family, notably my father, mother, and brother Aaron, have always been there for me, as well as my gran, who was my first teacher.'
Naidu expressed gratitude to the educators who influenced his journey, including high school teachers at Eden College and UKZN Emeritus Professors, conveying his appreciation for their unwavering support and guidance.
'A huge thank you to UKZN and the phenomenal Data Science teaching team who have played a massive role in shaping my future. Hard work and consistency produce good results, and I extend my congratulations to all the graduates!'
Beyond academics, Naidu embraces a balanced lifestyle through his hobbies, which include playing the piano, staying fit with weighted calisthenics, and sharing his knowledge through a YouTube channel dedicated to study skills and productivity.
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