The Durban University of Technology (DUT), through its Student Governance and Development Unit, successfully hosted the photoshoot with Vice-Chancellor and Principal alongside student leaders on Thursday, August 21, at the Riverside Hotel in Durban. The event served as a traditional farewell for the outgoing Student Representative Council (SRC), as the University prepares to welcome newly elected leaders next month.
Opening the occasion, Dr Clement Moreku, Dean of Students at DUT, praised the SRC for their dedication and commitment to enhancing student life through initiatives like the Phakimpilo program and SRC grants, which supported students in need of registration fees and food security.
“You have led student body with pride and made a significant contribution to the governance of the university. As outlined in the Higher Education Act, the SRC plays a critical role within higher education. Your legacy can be seen in many, for instance you contributed towards Phakimpilo in ensuring no students go to bed hungry,” said Dr Moreku.
DUT Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, outgoing SRC President, Mr Solomzi Zoleka together with Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thandwa Mthembu.
Outgoing SRC President, Mr Solomzi Zoleka, and Finance Officer, Mr. Sihle Nkosi, expressed gratitude to the Student Governance & Development Unit for their support and guidance through the unit’s programs, such as capacity buildings and leadership development initiatives, that played a significant role in shaping them with leadership skills and mindsets.
This acknowledgement highlighted the importance of mentorship and development opportunities for student leaders, enabling them to effectively serve their peers and make a positive impact on campus life.
DUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thandwa Mthembu praised the outgoing SRC for their contributions to the institution, acknowledging the important role they have played. He also offered words of encouragement, reminding them that their connection to DUT would not end with their term in office, and that they will always be considered part of the university community.
Dr. Maditsane Nkonoane, DUT Registrar, brought the session to a close with a vote of thanks. He expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for sharing his wisdom with student leaders, despite his busy schedule. Dr. Nkonoane also commended the outgoing SRC for their strength and bravery in navigating challenging situations, acknowledging their dedication and resilience.
“This photoshoot is a tradition that we introduced with the 2020/2021 SRC. Nothing warms my heart like meeting student leaders in the outside world, long after their term of office has ended and finding that they are doing well for themselves. When you signed your pledge, which is based on the DUT Living Values framework, as the first SRC that ever went the two-year term, you demonstrated resilience in the face of huge criticism and huge attacks for statements that you made,” said Dr Nkonoane.
Pictured: DUT Vice Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thandwa Mthembu, Institutional Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane and Dean of Students, Dr Clement Moreku with the outgoing SRC.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Thubelihle Dumakude
