As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) aspires to produce adaptive graduates that will participate productively in the development of our region, country and the world. Mnqobi Ngobese, DUT Communications’ editorial team member, recently engaged with the DUT Athletic star and KZN U23 10KM racewalking record breaker, Philasande Mlambo to share his student experience through sports and academics and how he lives the DUT Living Values and Principles.
Name : Philasande Mlambo
Place of birth : Dundee
Sport code : Athletics
Qualification : ICT: Business Analysis
Q: When did you join the DUT Sport Team?
A: “I joined the team in 2021 after being enrolled at the university.”
Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “I grew up as an athlete partaking in athletics, soccer, and cricket. Athletics caught my attention even though it is quite a demanding sport which requires my intense focus to perform to my level best.”
Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate what it entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “I am a racewalker and this type of sport code is not well known. Being DUT’s first racewalker also opens doors for others to participate in the sport.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “Triathlon. I’m naturally an endurance athlete and it is an endurance sport which I have adapted to quite quickly and excel in.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “I have participated in the Athletics South Africa (ASA) Racewalking Championships And Open International 2024 in Cape town and the ASA Track and Field Championships in Pretoria.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sports?
A: “I believe DUT can play a vital role to help nurture our talent since it has better resources than high schools and local sports teams.”
Q: Who is your sport role model and why?
A: “My role model is my coach Sihle Shange. He is KwaZulu-Natal’s (KZN’s) first black racewalker, and more especially his background is similar to mine.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles do you associate with and why?
A: “I associate with commitment because as an athlete I strongly believe that every success is a result because of hard work and dedication which are both foundations of commitment.”
Q: Do you see a future in athletics ?
A: “ Yes, I do. I have grown and achieved a lot and another five years from now I see myself reaching even greater heights and competing in the Olympics or the Commonwealth Games.”
Q: As a DUT sport star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “My progress and achievements has awakened an interest of sport in many young people in my community. Some parents are supporting and encouraging their children to join a sport and stay away from social illnesses and loitering.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “I’m am confident that through athletics I will be given the opportunity for the first time to go to other African countries and overseas.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to university sport?
A: “It would be good for DUT to host sport workshops and to invite various sport professionals to address our athletes.”
