The Department of Student Governance at DUT recently hosted its first orientation for 2016’s first year students at the University’s Fred Crookes Sports Centre, Steve Biko Campus.

The orientation was not only aimed at welcoming first years to the University but also a platform to provide happy and quality transitional experiences that will stay in the hearts of the students throughout their time at the Durban University of Technology.

Student Development Practitioner and Organiser, Ndumiso Ngidi, said it was crucial for the Department of Student Governance to play an active role in the development of the students and to make sure their stay was warm and filled with good memories. “It is crucial to support, develop and play an active role in maximising students’ potential for academic, personal and experiential growth of each student that forms part of the DUT family,” said Ngidi.
DUT’s first year experience prioritised the needs of students who have just joined the University’s community, with most of these students coming straight from high school. The orientation was a collective effort aimed at assisting students adapt to their new environment and be emotionally and academically ready for their new journey.

Addressing the students, Sihle Mbanjwa, Senior Psychologist at the University’s Department of Student Counselling and Careers Centre, advised students to graduate on time and always seek help when they need it. “Student orientation is about having fun but it is also about helping students know more about the services provided to them by the Institution. Students must have an understanding of their new environment and they must also know that we are here for them at all times since many students are afraid to seek help when they need it,” he said.

Incoming first years enjoyed themselves and could not contain their joy at being enrolled in a university. “I really enjoyed myself and I am so happy that the university has done this for us,” said Ncumisa Matjoe. “We feel special and will not be afraid to speak out or seek help when we need it. I was terrified when I first got here from the Free State but now I feel at home. I have made some new friends today,” she said.

What the orientation offered first year students:
· An opportunity to get a more concrete feel for the University community.
· Learn about DUT resources available to them.
· Meet and network with other first year students.
· Identify social, cultural and academic opportunities and resources offered to them by the University.
· Know and understand academic expectations and motivate to graduate alive.
· Be prepared for their time at DUT.
· Know how to access information about anything pertaining to their student life at DUT.
· Have fun.
· Win prizes.

Pictured: First year students having fun during the orientation.

– Noxolo Memela