The Durban University of Technology’s Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Department of Finance and Information Management (Midlands), recently organised a two-day leadership workshop  for student leaders at Protea Hotel, Karridene. The workshop was aimed to equip student leaders with essential leadership skills and prepare them for their roles both within the university and beyond.

In attendance was the interim Head of Department, Dr Thandukwazi Ncube, along with lecturers and programme coordinators in the department: Dr Mbalenhle Khumalo, Mrs Longane Bhebhe-Mwelase, Mr Emanuel Matlala, Mr Phumlani Simelane, Mr Sicelo Cele, and Miss Jabhisile Maphumulo.

The workshop was designed to help student leaders develop the leadership qualities necessary  to lead peers, affect positive change at the university, and prepare them  for future professional roles. The initiative  aligns with DUT’s mission to nature well-rounded graduates equipped for both academic and professional success. Beyond fostering leadership competence, the workshop also sought to instil a sense of responsibility, honesty, and collaboration among the students. The workshop was facilitated by Mr Anil Salick, who covered various aspects of leadership, including:

• Conflict Resolution
• Success and personal change
• Understanding leadership and teamwork
• Communication skills
• Strategic thinking and decision making
• Diversity and inclusion in leadership

Following Mr Salick’s presentation, Dr Ncube addressed the students, emphasising the importance of leadership skills not only for their current roles but for their future endeavours. He remarked,  “Leadership is not about titles or position; it is about the influence, responsibility, and the ability to inspire those around you. It is our department’s goal to ensure that each one of you leaves this workshop equipped to make meaningful contributions, both in the DUT community and in society at large,” said Dr Ncube.

Student leaders were also reminded of their duty to uphold the university’s values and to foster an inclusive, creative, and respectful campus environment. The workshop reaffirmed DUT’s dedication to providing a comprehensive education, where leadership skills are integral to success and the development of responsible, ethical, and effective future leaders.

The students who participated in the workshop expressed their gratitude to the Head of Department and the department for hosting the event, noting that it provided a valuable opportunity to engage with fellow student leaders. One of the students shared that the workshop had opened their eyes to the real challenges of being a leader.

Pictured: Participants at the leadership workshop.

Siphokazi Dlamini