As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) is committed to producing adaptive graduates who contribute meaningfully to the development of the region, South Africa and the world. Through sport, the University continues to cultivate discipline, leadership, teamwork and resilience, while promoting the holistic development of students both on and off the field.

S’bonelo Dlamini, a member of the DUT Communications team, recently sat down with DUT e-Sport star Nobuhle Makhanya to discuss her sporting journey, what inspired her passion for e-Sport and how she embodies the DUT Living Values through her participation in university sport.

Name: Nobuhle Makhanya

Place of birth: Durban

Sport code: e-Sport

Qualification: Diploma in ICT: Application Development

Q: When did you join the DUT sport team?

A: “I joined the DUT sport team in 2023.”

Q: What sparked your interest in e-Sport?

A: “I like the fact that it is a combination of sport, gaming, technology and entertainment. For me, it brings together everything I am interested in in one sport.”

Q: In terms of the role you play in the team, what does it entail and how does it benefit the team?

A: “With all the roles and responsibilities I hold within the team, I focus on keeping the team grounded, disciplined and always goal-driven.”

Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?

A: “Basketball. It teaches me a lot about teamwork and how to handle competition. It is a fast-paced sport that requires speed, which means I can always stay fit. It is also a sport I use to escape reality because when I am on the court, it is just the ball and me.”

Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?

A: “The USSA tournament.”

Q: Why is it important for DUT to develop students through sport?

A: “Sport promotes physical and mental wellness. It also strengthens an athlete’s communication skills and ability to work as part of a team, while creating a disciplined environment.”

Q: Who is your role model and why?

A: “My mother. She also has an athletic side, but what stands out the most is that she represents determination, discipline, resilience and confidence. She always reminds me that age or background should not limit how far you can go if you are willing to work hard and believe in yourself.”

Q: Which ENVISION2030 living value or principle do you most identify with and why?

A: “Inclusivity, because in an institution with so many students, I believe we are all different and unique in our own way. The backgrounds we come from are also different, but there can always be something that unites us, where each individual feels welcomed and valued. That is the footprint I would like to leave in every environment I am in.”

Q: Do you see a future in e-Sport?

A: “Yes, I do.”

Q: As a DUT sporting star, how does your role benefit your community?

A: “As a Sport Union member and an e-Sport player, my role benefits my community by using sport as a platform to inspire, develop and connect students. It also helps to ensure transparent communication between athletes and sport officers.”

Q: What impact has sport had on your life?

A: “It has given me the ability to view life differently and to always be ready for my next tough match with life. I have learnt to adapt and adjust to every challenge life may throw at me.”

Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract more spectators to varsity sport?

A: “There should be more interaction with people before games. We can also make use of our student influencers and introduce giveaways to encourage more students to attend and support the teams.”