DUT IS PROUD OF ITS ADAPTIVE GRADUATE, NIKHIL RAMDAV

Ramdav is a software developer with two years of experience in building .NET Core Web applications, data analysing, system design, system testing and system maintenance.

The dedicated, hardworking individual speaks about his part time at the DUT AppFactory in parallel to his studies which assisted his development in people management and being a team player.

“Becoming a software developer is a thrilling adventure that takes you into the heart of innovation, problem-solving, and continuous learning. Over the past two years, I have had the privilege of working at the DUT AppFactory, where I embarked on a transformative journey that shaped not only my technical skills but also my professional growth and personal development,” he expressed proudly.

Ramdav further explains that when he had joined the DUT AppFactory, he was greeted with a welcoming environment that fostered growth and collaboration.

“During the initial weeks, I was introduced to the company’s culture, values, and development processes. I was paired with a mentor, Viresh Hemraj, who guided me through the intricacies of the projects and technologies used within the company and after that was supported by Mr Siphamandla Mzobe. This support system allowed me to adapt quickly and gain a solid foundation for further skills development,” he said.

Ramdav indicated that as a developer, he had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of cutting-edge technologies and frameworks. He worked with cutting-edge technologies and frameworks such as cloud computing to machine learning and agile methodologies, he was encouraged to explore and leverage these tools to solve complex problems.

“This exposure has not only expanded my technical knowledge but also challenged me to think creatively and push the boundaries of what I thought was possible,” he added.

For Ramdav, one of the most rewarding aspects of working at the DUT AppFactory was the collaborative environment that nurtured teamwork and synergy. Through cross-functional projects, he had the privilege of collaborating with talented individuals from different disciplines.

“The exchange of ideas, constructive feedback, and collective problem-solving enhanced the quality of our work and created a supportive ecosystem where everyone’s voice was valued. This environment fostered personal growth, broadened my perspective, and taught me the importance of effective communication and teamwork,” he stressed.

In addition, he said that working in an agile environment taught him the art of adapting to change, embracing feedback, and delivering value incrementally. Ramdav relayed that the agile approach improved their productivity and instilled in him a mindset of continuous improvement and flexibility, essential qualities for any software developer.

“You often hear the saying that learning occurs at the feet of elders. At the DUT AppFactory, mentorship is highly valued. Senior developers provided guidance, shared their experiences, and helped me navigate the complexities of software development. They encouraged me to take on challenging projects, acquire new skills, and explore my passions,” he added.

He professed that the past two years as a software developer at the DUT AppFactory had been a transformative journey. The moment he joined, he was embraced by a culture that nurtured growth, innovation, and collaboration. He relayed that working with cutting-edge technologies, collaborating with talented individuals, and embracing agile methodologies had sharpened his technical skills and enriched his professional journey. Ramdav added that the invaluable lessons he had learned in mentorship, continuous learning, and adaptability have shaped his career and made him a better problem solver, communicator, and team player.

Ramdav affirmed that being a team lead at the DUT AppFactory is an exhilarating and rewarding experience. As a team lead, he was privileged to guide and support a talented group of developers, foster collaboration, and drive projects towards success.

“Being a team lead allowed me to make a meaningful impact, not only in delivering high-quality software solutions but also in nurturing each team member’s growth and professional development. Together, we overcame obstacles, celebrated achievements, and created a cohesive and dynamic environment that brought out the best in everyone,” he said.

Ramdav commented that with just two years of experience as a software developer, one can significantly improve one’s livelihood by developing innovative software solutions. “A developer can create tools and applications that streamline processes, automate tasks, and enhance productivity in various industries. With these skills and expertise, I can positively transform lives by creating solutions to make a tangible difference,” he indicated.

Ramdav added that his mentor was Cassim Vanker (Director of the App Factory). He highlighted that as his mentor guided and inspired him throughout his professional journey, providing invaluable advice, sharing his experiences, and challenging him to reach new heights.

“Mr Vanker leads by example, demonstrating integrity, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His unwavering support and belief in my abilities have empowered me to grow, take on new challenges, and continuously strive for greatness. I am truly fortunate to have such a remarkable mentor who has shaped my career and become a role model I aspire to emulate,” he said.

His advice to future software developers at DUT is that it’s not just about writing code; it’s about the growth, the connections, and the impact one makes along the way.

“Embrace the opportunities that come your way, stay curious, and always strive to push the boundaries of what you think is possible. As I look ahead to the future, I am excited to continue growing as a software developer, embracing new challenges, and making a positive impact through my work. My journey at the DUT AppFactory has laid a solid foundation for a successful career and instilled a passion for continuous learning and innovation,” he said proudly.

Pictured: Nikhil Ramdav.

Waheeda Peters