The International Education and Partnerships (IEP) Office at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently hosted the First Time International Students’ Orientation Day to officially welcome new international students. The event was held at the ML Sultan Campus on Friday, 27 February 2026.
Delivering the welcoming remarks, Dr Lavern Samuels, Director of International Education and Partnerships, welcomed the students to DUT and congratulated them on the courage it takes to leave their home countries to study abroad. He reminded them that universities are universal spaces where people have travelled across regions for centuries in pursuit of knowledge, not only in Western civilisations but also in Africa, Asia and the Arab world.
“At DUT, our commitment to internationalisation is deeply rooted in decolonisation and Africanisation. We believe in retelling our history, reexamining the present and reimagining the future. As a leading, world ranked university, we are driven by an ambitious strategic vision and ongoing campus development aimed at reinventing our institution and producing adaptive, globally minded graduates,” said Dr Samuels.
Dr Samuels encouraged students to become global citizens who understand how local and global issues such as pandemics, climate change, food security and economic policies are interconnected. He urged them to excel academically, integrate into campus life, build friendships and fully embrace the student experience.
He also encouraged undergraduate students to pursue postgraduate studies and doctoral students to continue contributing to the knowledge economy. Importantly, he reminded them that they belong at DUT and should see themselves not only as ambassadors of their home countries but also as ambassadors of South Africa.
He concluded with an African proverb: “Until the lion has its own storyteller, the story of the hunt will always glorify the hunter,” urging students to become storytellers who shape and retell history while contributing to a better world.
Ms Hombakazi Radebe, a Subject Librarian, provided insight into the library services and resources available to students from undergraduate to postgraduate level. She also guided students on how to access the library’s online resources both on and off campus.
Representing the Student Representative Council, Deputy President Qhawe Mtengu welcomed students to DUT and assured them that the council is committed to representing and supporting students across all campuses. He encouraged students to report any challenges they may encounter and emphasised that the support provided by the council comes at no cost.
He further encouraged students to feel at home, participate in upcoming programmes and join clubs and societies to enrich their university experience. He thanked them for choosing DUT and encouraged them to apply the knowledge and skills they gain to make a positive impact in their communities.
Students were also introduced to key departments on campus that provide essential support, from academic assistance to health and safety services. Among the departments that shared their services with students were Ms Philile Mbambali, International Student Relations Officer, Mr Charles Sehlogo, Director of Protection Services, Ms Kholeka Mfeka, Administrative Officer from the Student Governance Department, Sr Salome Naidoo, Senior Professional Nurse, Mr Lindokuhle Zwane from the Sports Department, as well as representatives from DUT’s Residence Life for International Students and the Student Academic Support and Development Unit.
Benjamin Simon, President of the International Student Organisation at DUT, assured first year students of the support available to them throughout the year. He highlighted how the organisation helps students settle into university life, connect with peers from different countries and resolve issues such as registration delays or visa related challenges. Simon also shared plans for upcoming social events and networking opportunities that will help students build connections and actively engage in campus life.
The orientation concluded with a vote of thanks, leaving students with a strong sense of belonging and purpose. The event served not only as an introduction to university life but also as a call for students to embrace DUT’s ENVISION2030 philosophy by being creative in their pursuits, distinctive in their contributions and impactful in their communities both locally and globally.
Pictured: First time international students during their orientation with DUT staff members.
Photographer: Sbonelo Tyson Dlamini
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
