The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Communications unit under Corporate Affairs hosted their prestigious Media Day 2023. The event took place at The Capital Pearls, Umhlanga on Friday, 08 December 2023. The theme for the day was “Celebrating DUT Excellence”.
This is the second time that the event has been hosted. The purpose of the event was to give appreciation to the media houses that the unit has been working with throughout the year to share DUT stories, and the unit wishes to continue working with the media houses in the coming years.
Welcoming the media and the guests was Mr Alan Khan, Senior Director of Corporate Affairs at DUT.
Ms Siphumelele Nzimande was the Programme Director for the day. Mr Alan Khan, who is the Senior Director of Corporate Affairs, delivered the opening and welcome remarks. Mr Khan acknowledged the vital role of the media. He explained it as the bridge that connects the university to the broader community.
“Your dedication in disseminating information and telling our stories plays a crucial role in keeping the public informed and engaged with the transformative work we do here at DUT. Your stories promote our adaptive graduates, it helps to inspire high school learners and members of the public and your support and interest in DUT also keeps our communication team working. Sometimes, after hours and over weekends but that is the excitement of the news cycle,” said Khan.
Khan further said that he is immensely proud to acknowledge the accomplishments of the DUT graduates, many whom have ventured into the media landscape, shaping narratives, and contributing significantly to newsrooms across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.
He concluded by saying the event was more than just a luncheon, it was about strengthening bonds, fostering collaborations, and envisioning a future where DUT continues to be a beacon of knowledge, a home for innovation and research and a place where entrepreneurs can prosper.
DUT Media Officer, Ms Simangele Zuma and DUT Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane after he delivered the keynote address.
Delivering the keynote address was the Institutional Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane. Dr Nkonoane who explained the theme “Celebrating DUT Excellence” as not only as a catchy phrase, but it embodied the very essence of what defines DUT as the number one University of Technology in South Africa. He extended his profound appreciation to the media for their continuous support and unbiased reporting.
“Your role in sharing our stories and achievements amplifies our efforts and motivates us to reach greater heights,” he said.
Dr Clement Moreku who is the Dean of Students touched on the preparedness to welcome new students in 2024.
For the closing remarks, Media Officer, Ms Simangele Zuma thanked all the speakers for their amazing presentations, and for their attendance to the prestigious event. She extended a special thanks to the media for their support in promoting the DUT excellence and hoped that they will continue working well together in 2024 and beyond.
Kantu Women Experience graced the stage and entertained the guests with their ‘out of this world’ voices. Zuma headed a question and answer, where attendees were given the opportunity to win spot prizes.
Pictured: Seasoned journalists, Rachel Vadi of Tabloid Newspapers and Salma Patel of SABC.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile.
Sibahle Ngcobo and Vuyo Khanyile
