The Department of Emergency Medical Care and Rescue (EMCR) at the Durban University of Technology recently hosted a rigorous and vital two-day orientation for first-year students.
The first day took place at the Bluff Military Base and immersed students in intense physical drills, a challenging hike, and a simulated patient search. The second day was held at the ML Sultan campus, focusing on academic integration through activities such as a campus scavenger hunt, group allocations, and a student pledge led by Ms Pauly Mngomezulu.
To ensure the new students were fully prepared for university life, speakers from various DUT support departments briefed them on crucial services. These included representatives from the Library, Writing Centre, Financial Aid Office, Campus Clinics, Sports Administration, and Academic Development.
Ms Mngomezulu, the second-year coordinator, explained the importance of such a rigorous introduction, noting that it familiarises students with the high demands of the EMCR course.
“The reason we put them through intense physical challenges is because the EMCR field requires one to be both mentally and physically always fit. It also teaches discipline and teamwork, which are core elements in the field,” she said.
Mr Yugan Pillay, Head of the Department, assured the students that they will have full support throughout their journey, and that the physical challenges are essential for preparing them for real-world demands.
“You need to be mentally strong and physically fit. Today was not about winning, but teamwork, because patients are not interested in what or who you are, but rather what you can offer them in their time of need,” he said.
First-year student, Miss Sinoyolo best described the orientation as a challenging but rewarding experience that tested both her mental and physical limits.
“It was very challenging, but because we want to be here, we are up for it and we will succeed,” she said.
Miss Hannah Drabble, a third-year student tasked with guiding the first years and demonstrating the core of the EMCR course, was impressed by the newcomers. She noted that the unyielding courage and teamwork displayed by the first-year cohort throughout the rigorous orientation was remarkable.
Pictured: EMCR First-Year Students Orientation.
Photography: S’bonelo Dlamini
Vukani Langa
