DUT recently hosted DUT Talk, a discussion forum where students and staff discussed matters affecting the University.

DUT Talk was held at the DUT ML Sultan Campus. The discussion also saw a discussion on the sustainability and growth of the University.

“We always encourage our students to finish their diplomas in record time”, said Malusi Nxumalo, DUT Student Governance Manager. “It’s not good to do a three year diploma for five years. As a student, you have a responsibility to finish your qualification and go back to your community and effect positive change; That is what we are encouraging,” said Nxumalo.

He also spoke on the contentious issue of political affiliations and strikes. “The University is a public institution and when students come to DUT, they are allowed to belong to any associations. They are allowed to belong to political groups and religious groups or any other groups because that will help them not to forget their identities as they come from communities of such backgrounds. I don’t condemn students who engage in strikes because it is one’s right to voice his or her dissatisfaction but they (strikes) must not be violent or interfere with the rights of those who are not part of the strike,” he said.

Another panelist, Euvette Taylor who is a Residence Advisor in one DUT’s residences said, “Students must be sure of the courses they choose. Know who you are before you consider doing a certain course. Conduct research about it so that you will be sure that is it a good option for you. Students must be passionate about their courses”.

Nelani Govender, Senior Financial Aid Councillor at DUT, said students must be self motivated, competent and outstanding individuals and not allow peer pressure to influence their decisions.

– Sihle Ndebele

Pictured: The DUT Talk panellists.