The Durban University of Technology (DUT) celebrated the achievements of its students at the Student Academic & Leadership Excellence Awards (SALEA) on 4 September 2026, recognising students whose contribution extends beyond the classroom into leadership, innovation, service and student life.
Held in two sessions, the awards brought together students, staff, nominees, university leadership, partners and guests for an evening centred on achievement and the contribution students make to the wider DUT community.
Opening the ceremony, Dean of Students Dr Clement Moreku congratulated the nominees and award recipients, while encouraging students to continue using their time at DUT to make a meaningful contribution to the university and the communities they serve.
The importance of student leadership was central to the event, with DUT Registrar Dr Maditsane Nkonoane challenging student leaders to look beyond titles and popularity and to recognise the responsibility that comes with leadership.
“Student leadership is a strange world, you are powerful and powerless at the same time,” said Dr Nkonoane.
He encouraged students to approach leadership with courage, respect and integrity, reminding award recipients that recognition should not mark the end of their journey, but rather serve as a foundation for further growth and service.
The message of leadership was complemented by a focus on innovation and the changing world of work. DUT partner Lenovo South Africa, represented by Mr Mubeen Sulumen, congratulated the students and encouraged them to embrace technology while developing the human qualities that remain essential in a rapidly changing environment.
“Use AI to amplify your creativity and technology to solve real problems,” he said.
For DUT, recognising student achievement is also closely linked to student success. Dr Shoba Rathilal, Acting Director of the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT), reflected on student success in the context of the university’s ENVISION2030 strategy.
She emphasised that success cannot be measured only through academic results, but also through the ability of students to apply their knowledge, think critically and make a positive contribution to society.
This was further reinforced by Mr Keshan Govender, Senior Financial Aid Counsellor, who outlined the Student Services Awards process. He explained that the process is guided by the principles and values of ENVISION2030, with fairness, transparency and integrity informing the selection of recipients.
The awards recognised students across a range of areas, including Sportsmanship, Exemplary Society/Club/Structure, Student Entrepreneurship, Outstanding Residence Life, Diversity and Inclusion, Emerging Leader (First Year Student) and the Dean of Students Prestigious Award.
Among the recipients was Amsa Laini, who received the Emerging First Year Leader Award. Reflecting on the recognition, Laini said the award affirmed the value of taking initiative and supporting others.
“Winning this award affirms that taking initiative and supporting others makes an impact and inspires me to continue serving and growing at DUT,” said Laini.
The second session recognised students through certificates for their contributions to areas including Student Buddies, Sports Student Governance, Peer Education and Student Housing, acknowledging the often unseen work students undertake to support their peers and contribute to university life.
The programme also included entertainment, while Lenovo South Africa presented laptops and tablets to selected students, further highlighting the role of partnerships in supporting student development and access to technology.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Mr Phumlani Mnyango expressed appreciation to DUT management and the Executive Team for creating a platform to recognise students and celebrate their achievements.
More than an awards ceremony, SALEA provided DUT with an opportunity to recognise the different ways in which students contribute to the university. From academic and sporting achievement to leadership, entrepreneurship, peer support and community engagement, the awards highlighted students who are making an impact during their time at DUT.
The recognition also reinforces the university’s commitment to developing graduates who are not only equipped with knowledge and skills, but are prepared to lead, innovate and contribute meaningfully to society.
Pictured: Some of the students who were awarded with Mr Mubeen Suleman from Lenovo, DUT Dean of Students Dr Clement Moreku and the DUT Registrar Dr Maditsane Nkonoane.
Photographer: Sifundo Thwala
Luyanda Mlaba
