The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT) hosted its annual Recognition Ceremony at Coastlands Hotel in Musgrave, Durban, to celebrate the achievements and contributions of staff and students towards advancing teaching and learning at the University.
The ceremony recognised three groups: the 2025/26 Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) Short Course cohort, the Design Thinking Short Course cohort, and Peer-to-Peer Supporters, including tutors, mentors and advisors.
Welcoming guests, Dr Gita Mistri described the occasion as an opportunity to recognise individuals who had invested in their personal and professional development. She noted that although the programmes were presented as short courses, their value extended beyond the certificates awarded, with the knowledge and skills gained having the potential to benefit colleagues, students, communities and the University.
Dr Rosheena Jeawon highlighted the collective effort behind CELT’s work and its contribution to strengthening teaching and learning at DUT.
“Today is more than an occasion for presenting awards. It is a celebration of people, partnerships, commitment and the collective effort that continues to advance teaching and learning excellence at DUT,” she said.
She pointed to the Centre’s work in curriculum transformation, staff development, student success initiatives, tutoring and mentoring, and innovation in teaching and learning. These efforts, she explained, are underpinned by the DUT Living Values of Integrity, Respect, Accountability and Excellence.
Reflecting on the first Design Thinking Short Course cohort, Dr Shoba Rathilal highlighted the diversity of participants, which included administrators, teaching and learning development practitioners, and academic development practitioners involved in curriculum, student, staff, policy and institutional development.
She emphasised that the programme was not simply about completing a course, but about encouraging participants to question their existing practices, reflect critically on their work and identify ways to improve.
Dr Doreen Mheta congratulated the SoTL cohort for their commitment to examining teaching and student learning through research and critical reflection.
She explained that the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning encourages academics to approach teaching as a scholarly practice. This involves identifying challenges in student learning, developing research questions informed by relevant literature, selecting appropriate research methods and ensuring that students are involved responsibly and ethically.
CELT Acting Director, Prof Livingstone Makondo, commended participants for making time to complete their programmes despite demanding academic schedules.
“If you think education is expensive, try ignorance,” he reminded the audience, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and professional development.
The contribution of tutors, mentors and advisors to student success was explored by Mr. Thembinkosi Kalanga, who discussed the academic and social challenges students may experience when transitioning into university life.
He explained that students arrive with different levels of academic preparedness and technological experience. For some, university may be their first opportunity to work with computers and learning management systems. He stressed that support should therefore extend beyond academic performance to helping students develop a sense of belonging.
“In terms of social transition we’re talking about the sense of belonging. Do they feel like they belong to a university? What do we do to make sure that our students belong?” he asked.
Kalanga referred to initiatives such as First-Year Orientation and the First-Year Student Experience programme, which help students understand university expectations and access the support they need. Drawing on Tinto’s Theory of Student Departure, he also highlighted the role of academic and social integration in supporting student persistence.
Delivering the closing address, Ms. Thalente Hadebe acknowledged the time, effort and personal sacrifices behind each certificate. She linked the achievements of the participants to DUT’s educational philosophy and its commitment to developing adaptive graduates who transform society.
“At DUT our philosophy of education reminds us that our creativity and innovation shapes adaptive graduates who transform society. Today we saw that philosophy come alive,” she said.
Hadebe encouraged the recipients to put their learning into practice in lecture halls, tutorials and mentoring spaces, where their knowledge and commitment could make a difference to the student experience.
“Let us remember that excellence in learning and teaching is not a destination, but a journey we walk together. Let us keep being creative, keep being distinctive and keep making an impact in our society,” she said.
On behalf of CELT, she thanked all attendees for their participation and wished them a safe journey home.
The ceremony recognised the people whose dedication, collaboration and continued development contribute to strengthening teaching and learning at DUT.
Pictured: CELT awards recipients.
Photographer: Sifundo Thwala
Nosihle Mthembu
