The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Faculty of Applied Sciences recently held its second Laboratory Staff Engagement, bringing together technical staff from across the Faculty to share experiences, discuss challenges, and explore opportunities for professional growth.

The event, held at Coastlands Hotel in Musgrave, included participation from Faculty leadership, Heads of Department, and Professor Bala Pillay. The workshop focused on three core objectives:

• To unite laboratory staff across departments for the first time, fostering cross-faculty collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• To review progress on 2024 survey findings and departmental solutions planned in early 2025.
• To empower laboratory staff through insights, lessons, and experiences of others.

Executive Dean Professor Suren Singh opened the session by emphasising the essential role of technical staff. “Our laboratories are only as strong as the people who run them. Your expertise, dedication, and professionalism shape the student experience and fuel the quality of our research,” he said. Deputy Dean Professor Tukayi Kudanga added, “By engaging with technical teams and listening to your insights, we strengthen the Faculty’s capability and innovation.”

The programme featured presentations from departmental leaders, including Professor Feroz Swalaha (Biotechnology and Food Science), Professor Ashika Naicker (Food and Nutrition), Professor Nirmala Deenadayalu (Chemistry), Professor Mack Moyo (Horticulture), Mr Alan Judd (Textile Science and Apparel Technology), Dr Suleman Moolla (Physics), and Dr Shereen Currie (Sport Studies). Staff discussed departmental progress, shared challenges, and highlighted aspirations for the future.

For many participants, the engagement provided the first opportunity to connect with colleagues from other departments. Zwelonke Beato from Horticulture said, “It has been both interesting and gratifying. It is encouraging to discover that we share common experiences and challenges.” Dr Sanele Dlamini from Physics reflected, “It feels good to know that management genuinely cares about technicians, our work environment, and career development.” Senior Technician Ms Jane Visagie, with 35 years of service in Food and Nutrition, said, “It is inspiring to see management taking the time to listen to us and involve us in shaping the Faculty’s future.”

Professor Nirmala Deenadayalu described the engagement as a bridge for collaboration. “Communication is where collaboration begins. These sessions allow us to align our goals and work together more effectively.”

Through ongoing training, workshops, and dialogue, the Faculty continues to strengthen technical capacity, support professional growth, and foster a culture of collaboration. The engagement reaffirmed that DUT’s success depends on collaboration, expertise, and dedication, qualities demonstrated daily by its laboratory staff.

Pictured: Executive Dean Professor Suren Singh speaking at the second Laboratory Staff Engagement session.

Photography: Nompumelelo Mpungose

Silindile Buthelezi