Problem-solving is enjoyable for me: UKZN's top-performing graduate

TimesLIVE

16-05-2025

Jaedon Naidu is the University of KwaZulu-Natal's (UKZN) top-performing graduate of 2025.
Described by UKZN as an 'extraordinary academic achievement', Naidu graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor of science degree, earning the highest credit-weighted average (CWA) in the entire university. 'His exceptional final CWA of 96.2% marks him as the top-performing UKZN graduate of 2025,' the institution said.
Naidu's degree was further distinguished by a rare triple major in mathematics, statistics and computer science.
Over the course of his degree, he achieved 100% for nine of his modules, earned five dean's commendations and 25 certificates of merit.
'His academic journey at UKZN was set in motion while he was still at school when the university's then dean and head of the School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, Prof Delia North, approached him and his brother encouraging them to consider data science as a career path,' said UKZN.
Naidu was accepted into UKZN's medical programme but soon realised his passion lay in a field that combined his strongest subjects and deepest interests.
'I changed to the data science programme which combines mathematics, statistics and computer science and realised it was exactly what I was looking for.
'It's hard for me to pick out any modules by name but certainly those I enjoyed most were the ones that were the most mathematical and tested critical thinking and problem solving. I don't enjoy memorising large amounts of theory and problem-solving is more enjoyable for me — like a puzzle,' he said.
The top achiever's passion for data science began when he was a child. He competed in national and international Olympiads in mathematics, computer programming and physics which gave him an early foundation in analytical thinking.
He said data science presented the perfect opportunity to bridge theoretical learning with real-world impact.
'As the world evolves, data science in its various forms is going to become more high profile, no matter the industry. So, inherent job security also plays a role.'
Naidu is enrolled in an honours programme in statistics at UKZN and plans to pursue a master's degree there or at an overseas university.
'First, I credit God for the combination of my talents and an environment in which to nurture them. Second, my family, most notably my father, mother and brother Aaron, who've always been there for me, and my gran, who was my first teacher and to whom I owe most of my academic success.
'Also, to all the teachers who have helped me along the way: My high school teachers at Eden College as well as UKZN Emeritus Professors Poobhalan Pillay and Delia North, and all the other excellent teachers and lecturers who have imparted their knowledge to me over the years.
'A huge thank you to UKZN and the phenomenal data science teaching team for providing me with the knowledge and experiences I've gained and who have played a huge role in shaping my future.
'A message to anyone who's about to start their degree or pursuing one — hard work and consistency produce good results.'