The My Campus Project, an initiative aimed at designing and refurbishing public spaces of the DUT City Campus recently came to an end, breathing new life into the Campus’s public spaces.

The project was the brainchild of Faculty of Arts and Design Executive Dean Dr Kenneth Netshiombo and involved second and third-year students who had been tasked with thinking of creative ways to improve the appearance of the staff and student courtyards as well as the canteen area.

Speaking about the project, Interior Design Lecturer Michelle Hankinson said she was very happy with the refurbishment. “This was a learning experience for the students to improve the appearance of their campus. When we started the project, there was scepticism from other departments and students about the success of the project. The response has been amazing. Students are enjoying the beauty of the spaces,” she said.

Before being refurbished, the targeted spaces looked plain, lifeless and dull, and in no way reflected the dynamic and artistic personalities that make the Faculty what it is. First-year Fine Art student Kirsty Meek complimented the new look of the public spaces, saying the result was “fantastic”.

“The environment is now pleasing. You feel comfortable when you are sitting here. The environment now represents the Faculty unlike before when they (targeted public spaces) were not appealing,” she said.

Third-year journalism student Sphelele Ngubane said the refurbished spaces will promote relaxation. “The new look brings vibrancy which is good for interaction (among students),” he said.

The Interior Design third-year students Sfiso Shange, Ndabendle Ncube and Nkululeko Nzuza, who were the leaders of the project, could not hold their excitement about the success of the project despite challenges they had faced. “The issue of equipment was a big challenge, but with the help of the South African Institute of Interior Design Professions KwaZulu-Natal Chapter representative Craig Bennet; Welcome Ngcobo from the DUT Maintenance Department on the City Campus and other sponsors, we were able to overcome them. I’m honoured; it feels good to have contributed something of value to the campus. This is history for me,” said Shange.

– Nkosinathi Wanda

Pictured: The refurbished public spaces of the DUT City Campus which were renovated by Interior Design students under the My Campus Project which targeted the staff and student courtyard as well as canteen area on the Campus.