The Advancement and Alumni Relations office at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) hosted its Alumni Homecoming and Donor Appreciation Gala Dinner at the Greyville Convention centre on Friday, 01 December 2023. The university donors were acknowledged and appreciated for their efforts in making a difference in the lives of the students while alumni were encouraged to engage and participate more actively with their alma mater.
The programme director for the evening was the charismatic and talented alumnus, Mr Sibusiso “JSbu” Nxumalo. He is a radio presenter at one of KwaZulu-Natal’s biggest commercial radio stations, East Coast Radio . He is a man of many talents, as he is also a musician, MC and a DJ that specialises in Afro House, Afro Pop and Afro Tech.
Starting off the evening with the welcome address was the Senior Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Alan Khan, also a DUT alumnus. He explained that the reality is that alumni are the heartbeat of any university, and DUT alumni hold a special place in the institution’s hearts.
“Your accomplishments, whether on global stages like winning Grammy Awards or creating the sleek lines of McLaren supercars, showcasing the incredible spectrum of talent and skill that has emerged from our university. You are the game-changers and record breakers, risk-takers, and dream-makers, paving the way for innovation and progress across diverse fields,” he stressed.
He indicated that the alumni’s dedicated support and commitment to DUT is immensely valued and appreciated.
“Let us continue to strive for excellence and inspire generations to come. We have the power to shape our destiny and contribute to the greater good. We must embrace the adventure that lies ahead with courage, resilience and a sense of pride and purpose. Here’s to your continued success and good fortune in 2024 and beyond,” he expressed.
Celebrating her shared legacy at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) and speaking on: The Power of Connection: Past, Present, Future, was Ms Sithokozisiwe Kunene, a DUT alumnus and member of CONVEX. She is also the Chief Director: Financial Accounting and Supply Chain Management, National Department of Transport.
She expressed that this Homecoming event was more than just a gathering; it was a testament to the enduring bonds that tie all alumni together, transcending time and space.
“My journey with DUT previously Technikon Natal, began approximately 28 years ago, a chapter in my life marked not just by academic pursuits but by a profound sense of discovery,” said Ms Kunene.
She indicated that during her transformative journey at DUT, the institution not only provided a robust academic foundation but also emerged as the crucible where her leadership capabilities were forged and refined.
“The multifaceted experiences and opportunities offered by the university played a pivotal role in shaping my leadership skills,” she stressed.
Ms Kunene commented that the world has changed since graduation, and so have the alumni.
“In the heartbeat of our university’s tagline, Creative, Distinctive, Impactful, lies not just a mere sequence of words, but a profound ethos that encapsulates the essence of our academic journey. It is a testament to our ability to envision beyond the conventional, to carve out our distinctive identity in the vast realm of knowledge, and to relentlessly strive for impact. Thank you for being a part of this special occasion. Here’s to the past, the present, and the future,” she relayed.
Adding to the conversation was alumnus, Mr Dasen Thathiah, senior reporter-eNCA. He gave a candid account of how he ended up at DUT to study journalism which was totally by chance.
He conveyed that for the three years he spent at DUT, it really felt like home. “I knew in my first year when I studied journalism this is exactly where I should have been in the first place and I was glad that I was there, (DUT),” said Mr Thathiah.
He further said that it is very important to give back to an institution like DUT as it is such a huge part of his life and where he is and what he has done, and it’s one of those reasons why he had stayed connected with the institution, doing guest lectures and being involved in other activities.
Mr Zwakele Ngubane, Director: Advancement and Alumni Relations, spoke of the university’s donor appreciation as well as shared highlights of the Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit . He made mention of the donor contributions and the impact it makes on beneficiaries lives and livelihoods. “Over 1000 students assisted financially over past three years. But with your help, we can do better,” he stressed.
He spoke on one of the beneficiaries, Ms Londiwe Sphindile Zondi, who in 2022 decided to study for a Postgraduate Diploma in Business and Information Management. He relayed that she did not have any funding and started to lose hope but was given a saving grace by the Alumni Relations office who helped her with R25 000 towards her studies.
He further delved into events that are planned for 2024 which include the Valentine’s Day Outdoor Picnic and Movie Fundraiser, 450 Campaign (staff/alumni campaign), Breakfast Business Networking Session, DUT Alumni Online Store, Mandela Day Fundraiser, Breakfast Networking Session, and the launch of the Employment Webpage.
Giving the vote of thanks was Mrs Nishie Govender, manager: Fundraising and Alumni Relations. She thanked all the speakers, donors, staff, and sponsors for gracing the prestigious event with their presence and encouraged more donors to contribute to improving the lives and livelihoods of students.
Pictured: Mr Zwakele Ngubane, Director: Advancement and Alumni Relations, Mr Dasen Thathiah, senior reporter-eNCA, guest speaker, Ms Sithokozisiwe Kunene, and Senior Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Alan Khan, at the event.
Photography: Khulasande Tshayile
Waheeda Peters
