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 Communication’s editorial team member, recently engaged with the DUT E-Sports team star Kayolin Pillay, to share his student experience through sports and academics and how she lives the DUT Living Values.

Name : Kayolin Pillay
Place of birth : Phoenix, Durban
Sport code : E-Sports
Position : Midfielder
Qualification: : Diploma in Nautical Studies.

Q: When did you join the DUT Sport Team?
A: “I joined the sport team this year. I am a first year student and I only found out about it recently.”

Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “I always enjoyed playing video games and I found out that I was really good at it so I joined the E-Sports to showcase my skills.”

Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate what it entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “⁠I play clash royale for the team and although it is a one versus one game it really helps the team in terms of the point system.”

Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A “I would like for DUT to implement Call of Duty mobile into the E-Sports since I enjoy it but in terms of existing sports I’m interested in soccer.”

Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “ I have not had the opportunity to take part in these tournaments and I have very little experience so I’m excited to see what it is like and how far I will make it. I am looking forward to participating in the 2024 University South Africa (USSA) E-Sports Tournament which will be hosted by DUT on Friday, 30 August 2024 and Saturday, 31 August 2024.”

Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sports?
A: “ It’s important to help students not only with studies but help them keep fit as well. A healthy body is a healthy mind.”

Q: Who is your sport role model and why?
A: “⁠Since I enjoy soccer, my role model is probably Lionel Messi due to his immense skill, talent and amazing attitude towards his teammates and opposition.”

Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles do you associate with and why?
A: “Integrity, I associate with being honest and having strong moral principles.”

Q: Do you see a future in E-Sports?
A:” I am not sure, I really want to pursue my studies and I would love to keep it as a hobby.”

Q: As a DUT sport star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “⁠I believe I can encourage other people to pursue sport in general and be active.”

Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “⁠ Sport has been part of my life since a young age and it helps me calm down when I’m upset or de-stress, it helped me a lot and I would love to keep it around me growing up.”

Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sport?
A: “ I think advertising more and adding games to E-Sports would be good options.”