Representing South Africa at one of the world’s leading skills competitions was a dream come true for Durban University of Technology (DUT) Analytical Chemistry student Siphelele Dlamini, who took his technical expertise to the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China, in September 2026.
“Participating in the competition was an incredible honour and a dream come true. I am proud, humbled and excited to have represented South Africa on the global stage. It was not just about competing; it was about learning from the best in the world and showing what South African youth can achieve,” said Siphelele, a student in DUT’s Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment.
The WorldSkills Competition provides young professionals with an international platform to showcase their technical abilities, develop their skills and build global networks. At the competition, Siphelele demonstrated his expertise in chemical analysis through a series of demanding practical tasks, including quantitative sample analysis, preparation of standard solutions and calibration curves, pH adjustments, and instrumental analysis using a UV/Vis Spectrophotometer and a Refractometer to determine density and concentration.
Siphelele Dlamini who competed in the Chemical Laboratory Technology category.
Competing in the Chemical Laboratory Technology category, Siphelele was required to complete complex laboratory tasks in line with strict international standards. These included sample preparation, accurate titration, spectrophotometric and refractometric analysis, chemical calculations, health and safety compliance, and the precise reporting of results. Accuracy, cleanliness and adherence to safety protocols were among the critical areas assessed.
Reflecting on his fellow competitors, Siphelele expressed admiration for their discipline and professionalism.
“You could tell that the level was exceptionally high; every country brought their absolute best. What impressed me the most was not just their technical skills, but their professionalism and deep respect for safety. Yes, it was fiercely competitive, but it was also full of ubuntu,” he said.
Siphelele’s journey to Shanghai began at DUT’s Ritson Campus, where he participated in the provincial WorldSkills Competition in Chemical Laboratory Technology.
“This experience gave me a distinct advantage because I was using instruments I was already familiar with. Winning the gold medal for KwaZulu-Natal was a proud moment,” he recalled.
His provincial victory secured him a place in the national competition, held in Durban, where he went on to achieve first place. This earned him selection to represent Team South Africa at the international competition in Shanghai in September 2026.
Preparing for the global competition required months of dedicated training and commitment.
“It took months of intense training, early mornings and late nights in the laboratory alongside my skill expert and coach,” Siphelele said.
DUT Senior Technician in the Chemistry Department, Ms Tebogo Cleopatra Sehlabelo, expressed pride in Siphelele’s achievement, highlighting the personal and professional growth that comes with participating in international competitions.
“The competition operates under intense pressure, which significantly builds self-esteem, focus and attention to detail,” she said.
She explained that through the experience, Siphelele developed important skills, including problem-solving under tight deadlines, time management and effective communication, which will serve him well throughout his career in the sciences.
Sehlabelo added that competitions such as WorldSkills play an important role in students’ academic and professional development.
“They build resilience, increase motivation and help students discover their hidden strengths. They introduce real-world problem-solving while opening doors to scholarships, internships and connections with top global employers,” she said.
Looking ahead, Siphelele aims to complete his Diploma in Analytical Chemistry and establish himself as a professional Chemical Laboratory Technologist.
“I want to use the international exposure and advanced techniques I learned in Shanghai to improve our university laboratories. I also plan to mentor young students, from high school through to university, and eventually work in quality control or quality assurance. It would be a bonus for me to become a future WorldSkills Expert so I can give back to the programme,” he said.
He encouraged other students to pursue similar opportunities, emphasising the value of practical skills and international exposure.
“It teaches you discipline, time management, precision and confidence. It proves that practical skills are just as valuable as university degrees, and it opens international doors. You learn that with a technical skill, you can compete anywhere in the world and build a successful career with your own hands,” Siphelele said.
He concluded by acknowledging those who supported him throughout his journey.
“I would like to sincerely thank my skill expert, skill quality assurer, all my coaches, my family and WorldSkills South Africa for their unwavering support from the very beginning to the end of this journey. To all young South Africans: choose a skill, stay focused and work hard. The world is waiting for you.”
Pictured: DUT Analytical Chemistry student Siphelele Dlamini at the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China.
Picture: Supplied.
Waheeda Peters
