Excitement filled Ritson Hall on 12 March 2026 as the Department of Mathematics at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) welcomed its newest cohort of first-year Higher Certificate in Applied Sciences (HCIAS) students. Kicking off their journey into the dynamic worlds of Science, Engineering, and Technology, these students were introduced to everything they need to succeed in their academic adventure at DUT.
The orientation session familiarised students with the programme structure, academic expectations, and the wide range of support services available to assist them throughout their studies. It provided an engaging platform where students received valuable guidance and encouragement as they prepared for the academic year ahead.
The Department of Mathematics staff at the orientation.
The programme was directed by Applied Sciences Lecturer, Dr Mthobisi Ntuli, who served as the Master of Ceremonies. As the Head of Department, Professor Darren Lortan, was unable to attend, Dr Ntuli delivered his welcoming message on his behalf. Professor Lortan encouraged students to reflect on their commitment to their studies and to take responsibility for their academic progress. He emphasised that completing the Higher Certificate within one year requires dedication, discipline, and consistent effort, and advised students to seek support immediately if they struggle academically.
Dr Ntuli reminded students not to take the opportunity they have been given for granted and stressed the importance of remaining focused throughout the year. He explained that the Higher Certificate programme consists of ten modules, with five offered in the first semester and five in the second. He emphasised that passing all modules is essential for successful completion and graduation, motivating students to remain committed and strive for excellence.
Faculty Office representative, Mrs Nonhlanhla Chiliza, provided important information about academic administration processes within the Faculty of Applied Sciences. She explained the Faculty Office’s role in supporting students from registration to graduation and encouraged them to familiarise themselves with key resources such as the DUT website and PeopleSoft. Students were also reminded to regularly check their proof of registration and to use their official DUT email addresses when communicating with university staff.
The orientation also featured motivational messages from the 2025 Higher Certificate top achievers, Ms Bibi Gaffoor, Ms Sibongile Tshabalala, and Ms Mekala Naidoo. They shared their experiences and encouraged the new cohort to remain focused and determined. Gaffoor highlighted the importance of having a supportive study partner, explaining that she and a close friend regularly studied together, which helped her achieve eight distinctions out of ten modules through dedication and discipline.
Presentations from the Quality Promotion and Assurance Unit, the Financial Aid Unit, and Student Counselling Services provided students with information about the various support services available to help them navigate academic and personal challenges during their studies. Towards the end of the programme, Dr Ntuli introduced the lecturers teaching the Higher Certificate students, giving the new cohort an opportunity to become familiar with the academic staff who will support them throughout the year.
The orientation concluded with an energetic and entertaining science demonstration by Professor Megandhren Govender. Through a series of interactive experiments, Professor Govender captivated the audience and demonstrated that science can be both practical and exciting.
The orientation programme successfully set the tone for the academic year, equipping students with the knowledge, motivation, and support needed to succeed in the Higher Certificate in Applied Sciences programme.
Pictured: First-year Higher Certificate student in Applied Sciences attending the event.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Sinamile Sithole
