The Durban University of Technology’s Department of Public Relations Management hosted its first External Engagement (EE) Awards Ceremony on 19 September 2012. The purpose of the awards was to recognise and acknowledge student achievements in the areas of community engagement and work integrated learning (WIL).

The EE awards facilitated the opportunity to network with industry practitioners, community-based projects and other key stakeholders. “We believe that such an event marks the department’s focus and keen attention towards providing authentic learning opportunities for its student body,” said Dr R. Balkaran, Executive Dean of Management Sciences.

“We are aiming to introduce a new learning era called General Education; this will be aimed at equipping all learning aspects notonly for PR students but for DUT students as a whole. To equip them with communication skills and the ability to know more beyond their specific field,” added Balkaran.

Top Achiever student for his Work Integrated Learning, Sipho Mkhize said, “WIL is what makes us better PR students, we learn a lot in the classes but being out there is what helps us. You network and build relationships and use your knowledge. WIL prepares us for the world of work!”

Guest Speaker at the awards Stephanie Berry, Regional PR Manager of the SunflowerFund, said “Having had the opportunity of working with the students, I know that they have gained from working in community outreach; they have interacted with the community and used their skills to grow – which makes them better PR agents.”

Pictured: First year Public Relations students(community engagement winners)From left: Zama Mazibuko; Qhawe Khoza; Mlondi Jali: Snenhlanhla Dlungwane; Ziphozonke Ngubane; Thokozile Dlamini and PR regional manager Stephanie Berry.