Student volunteers who dedicate their time, knowledge and skills to making a difference in their communities were recognised at the Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Student Volunteers Appreciation Day, hosted by the University’s Community Engagement Office at the DUT Hotel School, Ritson Campus, on 3 November 2026.
Held under the theme “From Learning to Leading: Students Driving Societal Transformation,” the event recognised students who have dedicated themselves to supporting community engagement initiatives and acknowledged their contribution to societal development.
Welcoming guests, Mr Alex Mdletshe from the Student Recruitment Unit commended student volunteers for representing the University’s values and demonstrating a commitment to serving communities.
“Every outreach you support, every community project you participate in, and every act of kindness you perform helps to build stronger and more resilient communities,” he said.
Delivering the opening remarks, Dr Andile Masuku from Student Governance acknowledged the contribution of student volunteers and the role of the Community Engagement Office in developing socially responsible graduates and future leaders.
Reflecting on the event’s theme, Dr Masuku emphasised that education extends beyond academic achievement.
“The true value of education is also reflected in how you use your knowledge, skills, talents and opportunities to improve the lives of others,” he said.
Drawing on DUT’s Living Values, particularly compassion, responsibility and accountability, he reminded students that meaningful leadership is rooted in service rather than personal recognition.
“Leadership is not about personal recognition, authority or status. It is about service, compassion, responsibility and accountability,” he added.
In her keynote address, Professor Pavitra Pillay, Acting Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, highlighted the contribution of student volunteerism to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She noted that students are already contributing to these global goals through their involvement in community-based initiatives, often without fully recognising the broader impact of their efforts.
“You may not know it, but you do it,” she remarked.
Professor Pillay further emphasised that academic knowledge becomes more meaningful when applied to real-life challenges. She encouraged students to listen to communities, understand the underlying causes of challenges and respond with humility and competence.
She urged them to work collaboratively with communities, recognising that meaningful transformation requires an understanding of the people and circumstances they seek to serve.
Sharing a message of support, Dr Myalo Sabela, Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, encouraged students to believe in themselves and recognise the value of their contributions. He noted that community engagement initiatives were helping DUT advance its aspiration of becoming a truly engaged university.
Sharing her volunteering experience, Chemistry student Thabisile Kaunda spoke about her involvement in the Mahlabathini Schools Science Programme, where she and fellow volunteers support learners in rural schools, many of which have limited access to laboratory facilities.
Through practical science demonstrations, the volunteers help learners connect theoretical knowledge with real-life applications, improving their understanding of Physical Sciences.
“Through the volunteering we developed important qualities such as leadership, teamwork, responsibility and empathy,” Kaunda reflected.
The programme also included the presentation of certificates to students who participated in various community engagement initiatives, recognising their time and contribution.
Special recognition was given to Maswamahle Youth Development NPC and IkusasaLentsha, two student-led organisations recognised as Uni4All Champions for their leadership and continued contributions to the programme. Their work demonstrated how student volunteerism can grow into sustained leadership and community-based initiatives.
Another special recognition was presented to Dr Phathisanani Hloma for his longstanding commitment to student volunteerism through the Mahlabathini Schools Science Programme in the Department of Chemistry.
Dr Hloma’s journey with the programme began when he was a student volunteer at DUT. After completing his studies and joining the University as a lecturer, he continued supporting the initiative, coordinating and mentoring student volunteers while remaining actively involved in its implementation.
His journey reflected the event’s theme, demonstrating how an initial commitment to volunteering can develop into a lasting contribution to community engagement and societal transformation.
In her closing remarks, Ms Phumzile Xulu, Engagement Practitioner in the Community Engagement Office, thanked the student volunteers, academic and administrative staff, and partners who continue to support community engagement initiatives across the University.
She acknowledged the dedication of the Community Engagement team and staff members who coordinate and support student volunteers, noting that their collective efforts create opportunities for students to make meaningful contributions to society.
Xulu encouraged students to continue using their education, knowledge and skills to address challenges in their communities and embrace their responsibility as agents of positive change.
Reflecting on the importance of giving back to the communities from which they come, she reminded students that they have an important role to play in improving the lives of others.
“There’s a reason why you were born there. And you were born there to be the light of that community,” she said.
She concluded by reaffirming the Community Engagement Office’s commitment to initiatives that connect teaching, learning and community development, in alignment with DUT’s ENVISION2030 and its aspiration to develop socially responsible graduates who contribute meaningfully to improving lives and livelihoods.
Pictured: Uni4All Champions award recipients
Photographer: Sphamandla Shabangu
Nosihle Mthembu
