The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Community Engagement Office recently hosted its annual Volunteer Appreciation Day at the DUT Hotel School. Themed “Beyond the Classroom: Building Change Together,” the event honoured the invaluable contributions of student volunteers and staff who champion the university’s diverse community engagement initiatives.
The Community Engagement Office collaborates closely with all DUT faculties to deliver programmes that not only enrich students’ academic and professional development but also address pressing social challenges in surrounding communities. Volunteers remain at the heart of these efforts, serving as ambassadors of DUT’s commitment to positive societal impact.
Guests were warmly welcomed by SR Thembeni Ngcobo from the Faculty of Health Sciences, whose opening remarks highlighted the spirit of unity and shared purpose that underpins DUT’s community engagement efforts.
In his opening address, Dr Nkululeko Zungu, Engagement Coordinator in the Faculty of Management Sciences, outlined DUT’s holistic approach to integrating community engagement with teaching, learning, and research. He emphasised that meaningful engagement begins with understanding community needs, building strong partnerships, and developing projects that produce tangible outputs – including research, curriculum enhancement, and social innovation. Dr Zungu expressed gratitude to volunteers for representing DUT with dedication and integrity, noting their essential role in advancing the goals of ENVISION2030.
“Without our volunteers, engagement would be impossible. You are the bridge between the university and our communities, and the knowledge you bring back helps shape our research, our teaching, and the future we are building through ENVISION2030,” he said.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Mammusa Lekoa, Social Engagement Consultant at Bioepidem Research Consultants, presented an insightful talk titled “How Institutions of Higher Learning Can Nurture Active, Engaged, and Responsible Citizens.” She highlighted the importance of community engagement in producing socially conscious, relevant, and adaptive graduates. Dr Lekoa stressed that engagement is strengthened when classroom learning connects with real societal issues and when communities are recognised as co-creators of knowledge. She also cautioned that without sustained institutional support, engagement risks becoming tokenistic rather than a transformative part of higher education.
“Our students become active and relevant citizens when they understand the world around them. Community engagement is not an extra task, it is the heartbeat of higher education, because our research, our teaching, and even our titles are shaped by the communities that taught us,” said Dr Lekoa.
Stakeholders who work closely with the Community Engagement Office also delivered messages of support. These included Mrs Xoliswa Cele, Chief Education Specialist (Mahlabathini CMC); Mr Sandile Khanyile, DUT Risk Officer; and Mr L.F. Mbongwa, Chief Education Specialist (Bergville CMC). Their reflections highlighted the lasting impact of community-based projects and the value of partnerships that prioritise social upliftment.
Speaking on behalf of Uni4All volunteers, Samkelo Gumede, a student from the School of Education under the Faculty of Arts and Design, expressed heartfelt appreciation for DUT’s community engagement programmes. He described them as life-changing experiences that broadened his understanding of leadership, service, and empowerment. He extended gratitude to all speakers and acknowledged the guidance of Dr Lekoa, as well as the unwavering support of Ms Xulu and Ms Nyandeni, whose commitment reflects DUT’s Living Values. Gumede noted that the event’s theme served as a reminder that meaningful education extends beyond lecture halls.
“Uni4All has taught me that real education happens not only in our lecture rooms, but in how we serve, lead, and uplift our communities. Progress means nothing unless we lift others with us,” he said.
The day concluded with a warm vote of thanks from Ms Nonhlanhla Nyandeni, Community Engagement Administrator, who expressed deep appreciation to all staff and student volunteers for dedicating their time, skills, and talents to serving communities. She also extended her gratitude to colleagues in the Community Engagement Office, acknowledging their teamwork, resilience, and unwavering commitment.
Pictured: Dr Lekoa, Mrs Xoliswa Cele, Mr L. F. Mbongwa, Dr Zungu, Dr Hloma, SR Ngcobo and Mr Ntsanwisi with award recipients.
Phumeza Msongelwa
