The Student Services at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently hosted the 2025 Student Services Awards (SSA) at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC), to celebrate the outstanding talents and remarkable contributions of students who have advanced the goals of ENVISION2030. The event honoured individuals and groups who have made a meaningful impact within the university community.
The aim of the Student Services Awards was to recognise and honour students who live out DUT’s Living Values through their leadership, service, creativity, and commitment to making a difference. The awards celebrated students who contributed positively to the university community, whether through sport, residence life, societies, entrepreneurship, or promoting diversity and wellbeing.
In his welcoming address, Dr Clement Moreku, Dean of Students at DUT, highlighted the purpose of the occasion, which was to recognise and celebrate student excellence. “We are here to acknowledge the exceptional contributions of our students, both individually and collectively,” he stated.
Dr Moreku further noted that the Student Services Awards embodied the quality, commitment, creativity, and enthusiasm that define DUT students.
Sharing the process of the Student Services Awards, Senior Financial Aid Counsellor, Mr Keshan Govender, explained that the selection process for the awards was guided by the values and principles of ENVISION2030, ensuring that fairness, transparency, and integrity remained at the core of every decision.
“Throughout the 2025 academic year, DUT students showcased outstanding dedication, leadership, and professionalism across a wide range of student services programmes. The Student Services Awards served as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate both individuals and teams whose efforts have made a meaningful difference within the university community,” said Govender.
Reflecting on student success and DUT’s commitment to ENVISION2030, Dr Shoba Rathilal, Acting Director of the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT), shared her views on student achievements. She emphasised the importance of students being able to apply their learning in real-world contexts, stating that receiving an award represented more than academic excellence it reflected dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence.
This year’s Student Services Awards featured eight categories, each highlighting a unique aspect of student excellence and achievement. The Emerging Leader Award (First Year) was presented to Noluthando Happiness Dladla, while the Sportsmanship Award went to Charlene Makwara. The Exemplary Society/Club/Structure Award was awarded to the Student with Disabilities Association, and the Outstanding Residence Life Award was claimed by Tim House Residence. In recognition of innovation and enterprise, the Student Entrepreneurship Award was presented to Owethu Sphesihle Mhlongo. The Diversity and Inclusion Award was received by Imperial Residence, and the prestigious Dean of Students Award honoured Luke Jaden Krishma in first place and Luyanda S’gcino Zulu in second place.
Luyanda S’gcino Zulu, a DUT student, shared her excitement at receiving the Dean of Students Prestigious Award, admitting that the recognition initially left her speechless as she had not expected it. She reflected on the hard work, dedication, and perseverance she invested throughout the year. She pointed out that the award did not only recognise her individual efforts but also inspired her to continue striving for excellence and to contribute positively to the university community.
Among the speakers who shared the stage were DUT Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, and Mr M. Suleman from Lenovo SA.
Two students received tablets from Lenovo SA for being exceptionally well-dressed and standing out during the event. Mihlali Mzilwa, a student who received a tablet on the spot, shared that the device will help her enhance her studies, stay organised, and access learning resources more efficiently.
In her closing remarks, Mrs Sooriagandhi Wardthen, Acting Director of Student Counselling and Health at DUT extended her heartfelt gratitude to all attendees and commended the students for their dedication, hard work, and outstanding contributions to the university community.
Pictured: The Dean of Students, Dr Clement Moreku with the winners at the Olive Convention Centre (OCC).
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
