The Durban University of Technology (DUT) continued their women’s month celebrations by hosting the South African National Defence (SANDF) representatives at the Sports Centre, Steve Biko Campus…

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) continued their women’s month celebrations by hosting the South African National Defence (SANDF) representatives at the Sports Centre, Steve Biko Campus.

The representatives were there to encourage students to join forces like the SA Army, SA Air Force, and SA Navy. Colonel N.P Mkutuka who is responsible for marketing and recruiting said they are on a mission of informing the youth all over the country about career opportunities available at the SANDF.

“The SANDF is not about shooting only, there are other avenues to be explored here” said Mkutuka.

However Mkutuka emphasized that whoever wishes to join the force in whatever sphere must train as a soldier. She said this is done to help candidates to be familiar with the military environment as it’s different from the outside world.

The speakers who were Lieutenant A Dicks from the Health Services, Staff Sergeant M.T Dani (SA Army), Major E Mac’Pherson (SA Air Force), and Lieutenant Paul Kuhlase (SA Navy) spoke in one voice.

Their message was that there are opportunities in all the entities they represent in many departments like engineering (mechanical, electrical, chemical etc), human resources, health (nurses, doctors, dieticians etc) and catering amongst other careers. They offer a two year program in what they call scarce careers, giving students a chance to study for free at any university, and offering a reasonable salary with a chance of permanent employment.

The opportunities are given to grade 12 students between 18-22 years old who meet university standard marks in their subjects especially mathematics, science, biology, and English . Students between 23-25 years old must be in a possession of a diploma, degree or equivalent qualification.

Kuhlase also encouraged students to join the SA Navy saying they are in need of divers, he said even if you can’t swim they will teach how to swim as long as you meet the requirements.

You must be a South African, physically and medically fit, have no criminal record, and be willing to test for HIV/AIDS if you want to be considered for selection.
The SANDF urged students to spread the word in their communities.

For more information visit www.dod.mil.za

From Left: Staff Sergeant M.T. Dani, Lieutenant A Dicks, Major E Mac’Pherson, Colonel N.P. Mkutuka, Lieutenant Paul Kuhlase, and Captain P.M. Sowazi at an open day presentation at the Sports Centre, Steve Biko Campus.

-By Nqobizizwe Zwane
Photographer: Andile Dube