The Student Entrepreneurship Programme (SEP) Graduation Ceremony, hosted by Student Governance and Development Unit in partnership with Student Housing and Residence Life at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), was a remarkable celebration of student innovation, resilience, and commitment to entrepreneurial growth. This prestigious event was recently held at the ML Sultan Campus and Riverside Hotel in Durban.
The event recognised SEP participants who successfully completed the programme, demonstrating their drive and commitment to building valuable entrepreneurial skills for their future.
The SEP final leagues kicked off at ML Sultan, where students had the opportunity to pitch their business ideas. The programme which also supported students who already had existing businesses and were looking for guidance had a total of 38 students participating in the graduation programme. The event then moved to the Riverside Hotel for the graduation ceremony, where four students were recognised as the top performers.
The ceremony opened with a heartfelt opening and welcome remarks from Mr Masiza Ngculu, Manager for Student Governance and Development Unit at DUT. He commended the students for their achievements and expressed appreciation for their commitment to the programme. Mr Ngculu encouraged entrepreneurs to take pride in their work and recognise their role in contributing to the economy.
He went on to highlight the significant role entrepreneurs play in contributing to the country’s development as taxpayers and major contributors, stressing that their success has a positive impact on both the government and the community at large.
Interim Director of Student Services at DUT, Ms Sthembile Mjadu, delivered an inspiring keynote address to the young entrepreneurs, urging them to lead South Africa’s economic transformation through creativity, collaboration, and ethical entrepreneurship. Addressing a packed hall of graduating students, Mjadu commended their dedication and innovation, describing them as “the future builders of our nation.” She emphasised that economic growth and employment creation will begin with young entrepreneurs who are willing to take initiative and think beyond conventional boundaries.
Mjadu also encouraged the graduates to collaborate with like-minded individuals and extend their vision beyond South Africa.
“The world is your oyster but never forget the power of teamwork. Together, you can travel far and achieve more. Be bold. Be ethical. You are the innovators who will shape the future of our communities, our nation, and the world,” she said.
The 38 students were excited to receive their certificates in recognition of their participation and commitment to the programme. They were proud and joyful to witness and celebrate this special day.
SEP Coordinator, Ms Lanna-Ann Brady, announced the four entrepreneurs who advanced to the final round. The finalists were Thokozani Buthelezi, Miniyentokozo Mkhize, Xoliso Dlamini, and Nqobile Mgwaba, who were selected from a group of 38 students and were required to pitch their business proposals to the panel.
After the final round, Ms Thokozani Sibiya, Student Development Officer at DUT, announced the top entrepreneurs who excelled in their business proposals, presenting them with their grand prizes;
- Thokozani Buthelezi
- Miniyentokozo Mkhize
- Xoliswa Dlamini
- Nqobile Mgwaba
Ms Thembelihle Zwane, Administration Officer for Student Housing and Residence Life, thanked the judges for their participation, saying their presence added prestige to the programme. She appreciated their valuable feedback, wisdom, and expertise, which inspired participants and contributed to the programme’s success.
Delivering the message of support on behalf of the SRC was the Finance Officer, Mr Thalente Mteshane, who expressed strong support for the programme, highlighting its positive impact on young entrepreneurs by providing them with valuable practical skills.
Thokozani Buthelezi, the winner of SEP, excitedly shared: “I am incredibly proud of what our team has achieved. Reaching this milestone is a huge step forward for us and for the vision we have been working on tirelessly. This recognition motivates us to innovate, grow, and continue striving for excellence. It validates our dedication and teamwork, inspiring us to make a meaningful impact on our community and the entrepreneurial space.”
Dr Andile Masuku, Student Development Officer at DUT, delivered heartfelt closing remarks, praising the dedication of students and facilitators. He reflected on the initiative’s journey, acknowledging the teamwork that made it a success, and highlighted the programme’s impact on student leadership and personal growth. Dr Masuku commended students for seizing opportunities, noting it showed their leadership potential, and emphasized the programme’s alignment with the university’s ENVISION2030 vision to foster community-driven entrepreneurs.
Pictured: Winners of the 2025 Student Entrepreneurship Programme, Xoliswa Dlamini, Nqobile Mgwaba, Miniyentokozo Mkhize and Thokozani Buthelezi.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Thubelihle Dumakude/ Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
