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’s boxing and Provincial Championships gold medallist Libuyile Gawuza, to share his student experience through sports and academics and how she lives the DUT Living Values.
Name: Libuyile Gawuza
Place of birth: KwaMachi, Harding in KwaZulu-Natal
Sport code: Boxing
Qualification: Honours in Bachelor of Sport Science and Management
Q: When did you join the DUT Sport Team?
A: “ I started boxing at DUT in 2022 when I was in my second year of study.”
Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “My interest in boxing was sparked by watching legendary fights on TV with my father and being inspired by the discipline, strength, and strategy involved. It developed even more when I was bullied in my first two years at Secondary School.”
Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate what it entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “As the captain in boxing, my role involves leading by example, maintaining high training standards, and fostering team morale.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “I am also interested in chess because it complements boxing in terms of strategy and cognitive ability. Chess requires critical thinking, and the ability to anticipate an opponent’s move, which are skills that are also valuable in the boxing ring during a fight.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “Beside participating in the USSA Championships in 2022 and 2023, I have participated in the Provincial Championships in 2023 where I became a bronze medallist. Again in 2024, I participated in the Provincial Championships where I won a Gold medal and was selected to play for the KwaZulu-Natal team in the upcoming National Championships that will take place from 2 to 6 July 2024.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sports?
A: “ It is vital for DUT to develop students in sports because it promotes a healthy lifestyle, teaches teamwork, discipline, and time management. Also, sports can be life challenging for individuals who are dedicated and work hard, thus developing students can place them at greater chances of being recognised by the right people.”
Q: Who is your sport role model and why?
A: “My role model is one of the best American boxer Devin Haney, his exceptional skills, dedication and confidence inspires me.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles do you associate with and why?
A: “I associate with excellence. In sports I strive for excellence and while striving for excellence it drives continuous improvement and high performance.”
Q: Do you see a future in boxing?
A: “ Yes, like any athlete would want, I see a future in boxing. In less than a year from now I am turning to the professional level. I have communicated with my coach and trainer and we have agreed that now is the time to go to compete in big stages. As the first person to ever play boxing in my hometown (Harding), this is a huge achievement and I believe that one day I will be at the panicle.”
Q: As a DUT sport star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “As a DUT sport star, my role benefits the community by serving as a role model, promoting physical fitness, and encouraging young people to pursue their passions. My achievements can inspire others to get involved in sports and strive for success both academically and athletically.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “Boxing has had a good impact in my life by instilling discipline, enhancing my physical and mental health, and providing a sense of purpose and achievement. It has also helped me to improve self-confident and taught me to never give up in life.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sport?
A: “To attract spectators to varsity sport, we could organise promotional events, engage with the community through social media, offer incentives like free merchandise or refreshments, and create a lively and entertaining atmosphere at games with music.”
