The International Education and Partnerships (IEP) Unit at Durban University of Technology (DUT) has recently held a successful teambuilding experience for international students. Activities focused on enhancing the various skills among the students, while also fostering stronger relationships outside of their usual work environment. Organiser, Ms Philie Mbamali, International Student Relations Officer, designed the event to be both engaging and educational, encouraging students to challenge themselves and work together in a fun and supportive setting, at the Acrobranch Adventure Park, Hillcrest.
One of the key components of the day involved games such as the Treetop adventure obstacle courses, which included climbing, swinging, balancing and zip-lining through branches with high ropes, tunnels, bridges and much more. These tested the students’ fear of heights, this challenge served as a powerful way to build courage and resilience. By confronting their fears in a safe environment, students were able to develop greater self-confidence and mental strength. In addition to overcoming personal challenges, the teambuilding placed strong emphasis on strategic thinking. Participants engaged in exercises requiring planning, problem-solving, and decision-making, thereby sharpening their ability to think critically under pressure. Listening skills were also cultivated throughout the day, with activities designed to promote attentive communication and teamwork such as the Bomb Cones which required one to listen attentively and follow instructions in order to get to the other end, the Crocodile River required team members to strategically plan and make critical decisions to get to the finish line.
Beyond the physical and mental challenges, the event successfully created opportunities for students and colleagues to connect on a more personal level. Creating shared experiences outside the university environment allowed both students and staff members to get to know each other better, promoting a sense of fellowship and mutual understanding. This bonding is essential for building a compatible team that can collaborate effectively in professional settings.
The entire day was filled with memorable moments captured through photographs and videos, which serve as lasting reminders of the team’s collective effort and enjoyment. These images will undoubtedly inspire future team activities and reinforce the positive atmosphere generated during the event.
After a full day of activities, the team indulged in delicious food, sharing conversations and laughter over thewell-deserved meal. The social aspect of the event helped to strengthen connections further and provided a perfect ending to an energetic and rewarding day. Ms Nikita Balram from Momentum sponsored the International Student Organisation (ISO) items such as the string bags and water bottles, which were useful throughout the day.
Overall, the teambuilding successfully met its objectives by challenging the students and staff physically and mentally while fostering better communication and teamwork skills which reflect the university’s values of collaboration and mutual respect. This teambuilding aligns with DUT’s ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework which emphasises values and principles focused on impact and innovative thinking and the International Education and Partnerships unit supports this strategy, promoting value-driven approach to education and community building. Such activities are invaluable in creating a collaborative environment that promotes growth, understanding, and enjoyment within the team.
Appreciation goes to event organisers, Ms Mbamali (IEP), Mr Francis Muyambo, Ms Michelle Pahla, and Dr Cyril Ejidike (ISO), and international students who shared their closing remarks after the activities. They expressed their happiness that the event was a success and conveyed their gladness at having enjoyed the experience. International Education Officer, Ms Mbamali also emphasised that there are many more similar events planned for the coming years to foster ongoing growth and teamwork.
Pictured: International students enjoying a teambuilding experience at the Acrobranch Adventure Park, Hillcrest.
Amanda Kali
