The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Video Technology Department, supported by the Community Engagement Office, brought career guidance, motivation and practical support to learners at Gcinimfundo Secondary School in Ndwedwe during an Empower Her Essentials Outreach in August 2026.
Held as part of Women’s Month, the initiative combined the provision of essential items with career guidance and exposure to higher education, encouraging learners to build confidence and make informed decisions about their futures.
Welcoming the DUT delegation, Mr Fanele Mbeje, a teacher at Gcinimfundo Secondary School, expressed his appreciation for the University’s continued support and longstanding relationship with the school.
“DUT has become like family to us. Year after year, they visit our school, and we have kept our promise of remaining amongst the top feeder schools to DUT. We warmly welcome DUT and thank the University for always including our school in its yearly plans and initiatives,” he said.
Addressing the learners, Ms Phumzile Xulu, Engagement Practitioner in the DUT Community Engagement Office, highlighted the importance of initiatives that respond to learners’ personal and educational needs. She also provided an overview of DUT programmes and admission requirements, helping learners gain a better understanding of the study pathways available to them.
Ms Nomvuso Ngcobo, a Teaching Assistant in the DUT Video Technology Department, presented a session titled “Women in STEAM: Exploring Career and Study Pathways.” She encouraged learners to explore opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM), particularly in fields where women remain underrepresented.
The learners also received a motivational message from Mr Samuel Ntsanwisi, a lecturer in the Video Technology Department, who encouraged them to believe in their dreams and remain focused on their goals despite the challenges they may encounter.
Using the metaphor of following a star, he reminded learners that their present circumstances do not determine their future.
“Do not allow people to judge you by where you are now. You are still building, still growing and still following your star. Believe in your dreams, keep learning and never let anyone make you forget your worth,” said Ntsanwisi.
Adding a personal perspective, DUT students Karabo Letsoalo and Aphiwe Khuzwayo shared their experiences in a session titled “My Story.” Their reflections gave learners relatable insights into the university journey and highlighted the personal and professional growth that can come with higher education.
Mr Sibongiseni Mthalane, a Technician in the Video Technology Department, introduced learners to the Video Technology programme, including its admission requirements and potential career pathways. The session provided insight into opportunities within technology and the creative industries.
For the learners, the engagement provided both practical support and an opportunity to learn more about their options after school.
Grade 12 learner Ntando Luthuli expressed appreciation for the career guidance and the opportunity to engage directly with DUT.
“We are grateful that DUT travelled all the way to our school to share this information with us. The career guidance has helped us to understand that there are many opportunities available to us, and it has encouraged us to start thinking seriously about our future and the choices we need to make after matric,” said Luthuli.
Grade 11 learner Sphumelele Gumede highlighted the value of receiving ladies’ essentials alongside career guidance.
“These essentials do not only help us with our immediate needs, but they also show us that there are people who care about our well-being and our future. The career guidance was equally important because it has encouraged us to believe in ourselves and to start exploring the different opportunities and careers that we can pursue,” she said.
The Empower Her Essentials Outreach demonstrated how community engagement can combine practical support, educational guidance and personal development. By addressing learners’ immediate needs while exposing them to higher education and career pathways, the initiative created space for young women to reflect on their potential and consider the possibilities available to them beyond school.
The engagement also strengthened DUT’s longstanding relationship with Gcinimfundo Secondary School and reflects the University’s continued commitment to meaningful and sustained engagement with schools and communities.
Pictured: Learners at Gcinimfundo Secondary School with the DUT team.
Phumeza Msongelwa
