The Faculty of Applied Sciences at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) is proud to announce that 10 students from the Department of Chemistry have qualified to compete in the Provincial World Skills South African Competition, which will take place at the DUT Hotel School Conference Centre on the Ritson campus in Durban from Monday, 15 September 2025 to Friday, 19 September 2025.
The 10 DUT Chemistry students.
The 10 Chemistry students are Sindisiwe Ndlozi, Andisiwe Mangena, Fanelesibonge Mncwango, Phumelele Mpanza, Siyabonga Komane, Siphesihle Luthuli, Nthabiseng Letsoalo, Asandile Mkhize, Lindokuhle Mpungose and Siphelele Dlamini. They will compete in the Chemical Laboratory Technology category.
The top performers will then advance to the national competition, with the ultimate goal of representing South Africa at WorldSkills International in Shanghai, China, from 22-27 September 2026.
According to Ms Cleopatra Tebogo Gwamanda, a Senior Technician in the Department of Chemistry at DUT and a National Expert for Chemical Laboratory Technology (Skill #52), this national initiative, led by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) under the banner of WorldSkills South Africa (WSZA), is crucial for addressing the country’s critical skills shortage in chemical technology.
“The students are competing at the highest skills competition level in South Africa, which speaks volumes about the exceptional talent that is developed through DUT’s chemistry programmes. This milestone reflects the dedication of both students and staff and highlights the practical training that prepares our adaptive graduates for industry and global competitiveness.”
In addition, Ms Gwamanda said the students will be judged on their technique in handling equipment (for example, pipetting), housekeeping of their workspace, their organisation and time management and report writing skills. They will also be judged on their professionalism, discipline and attention to detail.
The shortlisted students shared their excitement on qualifying for the Provincial World Skills South African Competition and representing DUT with pride.
Siyabonga Komane said: “I cannot put into words how excited I am to be afforded this opportunity to take part in the competition. For me, this is not just about competing, it’s about challenging myself, learning from others and being part of something bigger than myself. It is a chance to showcase my skills, push beyond my comfort zone.”
Sharing the similar sentiment, Sindisiwe Ndlozi said this achievement proves that her hard work has paid off. She indicated that she was ready to learn, compete and make DUT proud.
Professor Suren Singh, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences at DUT extended his congratulations to these ten exceptional students. “We are immensely proud of our students. Their success demonstrates that the practical, hands-on training provided by the Department of Chemistry in our faculty which meets international standards. This achievement reflects our shared dedication to producing adaptive graduates who are not only academically proficient but are also equipped with the skills to excel in their careers and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economy.”
Furthermore, Prof Singh said their success is a testament to their individual dedication and the faculty’s unwavering commitment to providing world-class vocational training, preparing the next generation of leaders in science and technology.
Prof Nirmala Deenadayalu, HOD: Department of Chemistry said: “I would like to wish all students participating in the World Skills regional competition for the Chemical Laboratory Technology Skill#52 best of luck in the competition. The skills that you, the students, have displayed to get you to this level are core skills in the chemistry field and will enhance your prospects in your future careers. This opportunity where you have been selected for the World Skills competition is testament to your above average performance at university and it must be honoured to bring greater success to you all both nationally and internationally. The networking opportunities must be cherished and it subscribes to DUT’s ENVISION2030 of building partnerships and engagements. The department would also like to thank DHET for this excellent opportunities for the students: academically, culturally and socially.”
Pictured: The 10 DUT Chemistry students who will be competing in the Provincial World Skills South African Competition.
Photographer: Nompumelelo Mpungose.
Simangele Zuma/Silindile Buthelezi
