The newly elected Student Representative Council (SRC) of the Durban University of Technology (DUT) participated in an induction programme organised by the Student Governance and Development Unit. The induction took place at the Edward Hotel on Monday, 17 October 2025. Excitement was evident among the SRC members as they embarked on their new leadership journey.
In her opening remarks, Ms Sthembile Mjadu, the Interim Director of Student Services, welcomed the esteemed guests, her colleagues from the unit, and the newly elected SRC members to the event. She explained that the purpose of the induction was to provide an opportunity for SRC members to meet colleagues from various university departments and units, to engage with them, and to gain a deeper understanding of the support and services they provide to the student community.
Beyond learning about these functions, Ms Mjadu encouraged participants to identify opportunities for collaboration that could enhance the overall student experience and strengthen the student life cycle.
“The induction is to promote teamwork and ensure that the university delivers effective, responsive, and student-centred services,” said Ms Mjadu.
Ms Mjadu further urged the SRC members to pay particular attention to issues of student engagement, especially how the council can work together to encourage participation and feedback from students. The importance of providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities so that they can fully participate in university life and reach their academic goals was especially highlighted.
Assistant Registrar Vikesh Singh emphasised the importance of fostering positive, robust, and meaningful engagements with the SRC throughout this period. He expressed eagerness to collaborate with the student leadership as partners in serving the student body.
SRC President Mr Sihle Nkosi emphasised the importance of upholding the integrity and reputation of the SRC in all engagements. He mentioned that members should never be involved in situations where they could be exploited or drawn into disputes, and that the SRC must always act in a manner that reflects strong and responsible leadership.
Mr Nkosi highlighted the need for members to conduct themselves professionally and courteously, even in informal interactions, such as during student registration processes, to ensure that neither the SRC nor the student body is compromised. He urged members to remain objective in all their actions, maintaining a clean record for both the SRC and the institution and to follow the tradition of past SRCs, which consistently demonstrated integrity and ethical conduct.
Among the speakers who delivered presentations were Soorie Wardthen, Interim Director of Student Counseling and Health; Dr Sikhuthali Nyangintsimbi, Chief Risk Officer; Sibongiseni Dlamini, Head of Committees Administration; Ms Indira Singh, Acting Manager of Student Housing and Residence Life (PMB); Makhosazana Twala, Acting Senior Residence Life Officer; Thembalethu Fihlela, Legal Officer; and Dr Ntombenhle Nombela-Mseleku, Student Admissions.
They highlighted the services offered by their respective departments to support students, raised awareness among SRC members about these services, and encouraged the development of strong, collaborative relationships between student leaders and other university stakeholders. Staff members present, after having made their presentations, took questions from the student leaders and participated in robust and meaningful discussions. The SRC collectively expressed much appreciation for the opportunity presented. The SRC president highlighted the importance of these interactions in strengthening their understanding of services available for and rendered to students and how they contribute to fostering effective collaborations.
In his closing remarks, Dr Clement Moreku (Dean of Students), extended his heartfelt gratitude to all the attendees for their active participation and commitment throughout the session. He specifically appreciated the staff present and their contribution to the start of the induction process for the new SRC. He spoke about the importance of student success and well-being, stating that low attendance in tutoring sessions negatively affects graduation rates and broader socio-economic development. Dr Moreku encouraged the SRC to take a proactive role in addressing these challenges by being intentional in championing the Living Values and in that way contributing to a values driven term of office and one that will leave a long-lasting legacy.
Pictured: A poster of the newly elected Student Representative Council (SRC) leadership.
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
