The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Community Engagement Office successfully hosted the final Keys to Excel training programme COHORT 4 at the Steve Biko Campus, recently.
Organised in partnership with the Young Leaders Academy and IQRAA Trust, this two-day programme wrapped up a year of impactful training aimed to prepare students for a future shaped by artificial intelligence, automation, and innovation, with a strong focus on self-mastery, critical thinking, teamwork, and career readiness.
Once again facilitated by Advocate Mohammed Vahed, founder of the Young Leaders Academy, the sessions challenged students to reflect deeply on their personal goals and adapt to the demands of the rapidly evolving job market. “It’s not just about getting a job, it is about becoming adaptable, innovative, and prepared for a world that’s constantly changing,” he reminded participants.
The atmosphere throughout this training programme was vibrant, with students embracing the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally in a supportive and empowering space. Nhlanhla Buthelezi, a third-year Business Administration student, highlighted how the training shaped his outlook, “This programme opened my eyes to the importance of adaptability. I now feel more confident about facing challenges in the workplace and I havve gained valuable tools to help me grow as a leader,” said Buthelezi. Sharing the same sentiments is Anathi Bhengu, a third-year Business and Information Management student, who also praised the initiative, “What stood out for me was how practical everything was. It wasn’t just theory, we left with strategies that we can apply immediately in our studies, work, and even personal lives,” he said.
Adding to the day’s inspiration was Dr Mahmoud Youssef Baker, co-founder and first Executive Chairman of IQRAA Trust. With a lifelong commitment to education, skills development, and uplifting disadvantaged communities, Dr Baker reminded students of the importance of aligning personal growth with service to society. “The true measure of success is not only in what you achieve for yourself but also in how you uplift others along the way. Education and self-mastery are tools, but they must be used to build communities, not just careers,” he said.
Hosting COHORT 4 at Steve Biko Campus not only marked the last and final cohort for 2025 but also underscored DUT’s commitment to equitable access and inclusive development across all campuses. The overwhelmingly positive response confirmed the immense value of the Keys to Excel training in bridging academic knowledge with real-world skills and human-cantered growth.
Pictured: Advocate Mohammed Vahed (Young Leaders Academy), Dr Baker (IQRAA Trust, Phumzile Xulu (Community Engagement), and DUT students.
Sihle Nzima
