The Durban University of Technology (DUT) celebrates Mandela Day in honour of the life and legacy of the late President Nelson Mandela, who spent 27 years fighting for freedom in South Africa. Mandela Day, an annual global celebration that takes place on his birthday, 18 July. This day is a call to action for individuals, communities, and organisations to take time to reflect on Mandela’s values and principles and to make a positive impact in their own communities. DUT Communications team members, Phiwayinkosi Sibiya and Sinamile Sithole spoke to the DUT students and staff about what significance Mandela Day holds for them and how do they plan to celebrate this day. This is what they had to say:
Thabo Lethabo Sikhakhane, DUT Disability Rights Unit Admin Assistant
Thabo Lethabo Sikhakhane
“Mandela Day is a day when the First Black President of South Africa was born, he sacrificed his life for his people to have freedom. We celebrate it by becoming impactful in our society as our university strategy ENVISION2030 state. I plan to celebrate Nelson Mandela Day at my previous school to assist matriculants with university applications, an opportunity I did not get but I want to be impactful by giving them the path to a great future which is education.”
Humeira Hussan, Master of Food Science student
Humeira Hussain
“Mandela was one of the most important figures in South African history, without him, I would not know the freedom I am experiencing currently. Beside that as a person, he was a very good human being who looked out for all types of people. I know that there is 67 minutes for Mandela and in that respect, I am involved in an environmental project that deals with recycling and environmental campaigns.”
Nikiwe Magugu
Nikiwe Magugu, DUT Student Counselling intern
“Mandela Day to me means giving back to the community even if its not for the less fortunate, it could be for school or varsity. I will be visiting one my primary school to help learners with painting and cleaning as well. This month is for Mandela so I have to do something that will be productive to my surroundings.”
Abash Barath
Abesh Barath, Bachelor of Architecture student
“What I know about Mandela Day is 67 minutes and with my family we usually go to the disadvantaged homes and communities to give them food parcels. He taught us how to love one another because we are one nation.”
Nkanyiso Peters
Nkanyiso Peters, DUT Student Recruitment Officer.
“It very important to celebrate Mandela Day in nowadays and to not forget that he brought us freedom that we are in. That’s why I don’t forget to celebrate him. This year I am not sure where I will be celebrating this day.”
Ngesihle Mthembu
Ngesihle Mthembu, Advance Diploma in Information Communication Technology student
“Mandela Day symbolises the power of compassion, activism, and making a positive impact on society. To celebrate it, I would be with my family sharing stories about Mandela.”
Zodidi Ndayi
Zodidi Ndayi, Faculty Assistant at the Faculty of Arts and Design
“Mandela Day holds great significance for me, as it embodies the principles of selflessness, compassion, and the pursuit of positive change within our communities. To honour this day, I plan to participate in community clean-up initiatives alongside students in my hometown. This effort not only enhances our environment but also fosters a sense of responsibility and civic duty among the youth.”
