The Durban University of Technology (DUT) in collaboration with Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) hosted a National Women’s Day Seminar under the theme “Celebrating 30 years of Freedom Towards Women’s Development” at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre on Friday, 30 August 2024.
This prestigious event also served as the official launch of DUT Women in Engineering and the Built Environment organisation. The initiative represents women’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and empowering environment in the traditionally underrepresented fields. Women professionals from various engineering industry, water sector and students were actively engaged in discussions, focusing on advancing women already in the field and inspiring the next generation of engineers.
Delivering the welcome speech was Ms Nthabiseng Fundakubi from the Department of Water and Sanitation who commended the attendees and edged women to stand firm in promoting gender equality in Engineering sector.
“We are gathered here today to celebrate women, taking from the foundation that has been marked by those who walked this journey before us. We are celebrating women who walked to the Unions Building to protest past laws. Women of today do not protest on past laws, but we protest for our development. We need to arm ourselves withstrength and with faith so that we can be able to strive, as we are currently at a development stage, where we need to prove ourselves in the industry,” she said.
Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Honourable Sello Seitlholo delivered a keynote address. He emphasized the importance of celebrating women’s achievements, reflect on challenges that persist and to inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in Engineering.
“This year, we are celebrating women’s month under the theme ‘Celebrating 30 years of freedom towards Womens Development’. Since the don of democracy in 1994, government have significantly improved programs that seek to empower women in public and private sector. Womens month must be a critical reminder to celebrate the success and impact that women have played in our societies” he said.
The event continued with Interim Director: Research and Postgraduate Support, Dr Nomcebo Mthombeni, who officially launched the DUT ‘Women in Engineering and the Built Environment’ (WEBE) forum. Dr. Mthombeni shared the importance of grooming students in a way that will lead them into success.
“I would like us to acknowledge our students which are our future leaders. I would also like for all of us to make sure that when they leave, they feel empowered, and they know some of the things they can do to succeed. This dream has always been there, that we need to empower our women, and my job is to ensure that we launch it. The objective is to create a supportive community for women who are studying and working in the faculty,” she explained.
The event continued with Sanele Mazibuko, Chief Operating Officer of uMngeni-uThukela Water, and Ashley Starkey, Chief Director at the Department of Water Affairs encouraged women to fully participate and compete in the water sector.
Awodwa Magini from the Department of Water and Sanitation’s Groundwater Plan shared her insights on the importance of women’s roles in engineering and science. Magini highlighted the struggles she and others face in breaking down gender barriers. She encouraged women to embrace opportunities and collaborate with men to drive the progress.
Magini also pointed out a crucial fact that women use water more than men, making their perspectives and expertise essential in managing this vital resource. “The positive shift in the water sector, where the private sector, government, and academic institutions are not only promoting women’s participation but also creating dedicated spaces for women to empower each other,” said Magini.
Lorraine Mooi, President and Co-Founder of South Africa Women in Plumbing (SAWIP) and Women in Water South Africa (WISA) shared her inspiring journey as a plumber. Despite entering the trade at the age of 39, Mooi has achieved remarkable success and is now dedicated to empowering other women in the industry. Her own experiences demonstrate the importance of perseverance and seeking opportunities, serving as a powerful example for women aspiring to pursue careers in plumbing and related fields.
The seminar received a resounding vote of confidence from industry leaders, including Mbole Mbuyu from Bremen Overseas Research and Development Association (BORDA) South Africa and Zodwa Dlamini of the Women in Water Diplomacy Network. Their words of support and encouragement underscored the significance of empowering women in water sector.
Lungi Biyela, a professional registered Engineer and Strategic Executive for Research and International Relations at Ethekwini Municipality expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Deputy Minister, sponsors, and various organisations for their presence and respect they had towards their event.
Pictured: Board members of the newly launched DUT WEBE organisation.
Photographer: Keith Kenneth/ DUT Multimedia
Thubelihle Dumakude/Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
