Medical Laboratory Science students at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently hosted the annual Hot Shots Blood Donation Drive at Steve Biko Campus, in collaboration with the South African National Blood Service (SANBS). The event encouraged the campus community to come forward and contribute to saving lives through blood donation.
First-year students showed great enthusiasm by leading an awareness campaign across the campus. They educated their peers and staff about the ongoing need for blood in the country and how a single donation has the potential to help up to three people in critical need.
This long-standing project forms an important component of the Medical Laboratory Science programme, allowing students to apply their knowledge to a real-world health initiative. It reflects their dedication to the healthcare profession and aligns with the institution’s Living Values and Principles by promoting compassion and active participation in improving public health.
First-year students were divided into groups, with each group responsible for bringing energy, creativity, and their own special touch to the drive. Each group set up its own stand and prepared goodie bags and small treats as tokens of appreciation for every donor who participated.
Speaking on behalf of the class, Nolwazi Nzuza, the class representative for Medical Laboratory Science, expressed pride in how the students worked together to ensure the event’s success.
“It was heartwarming to see our classmates come together for such a meaningful cause, as future health professionals, we understand the importance of blood donation and the impact it has on saving lives. The teamwork and spirit shown were truly inspiring,” said Nzuza.
She further explained that the students worked really hard to make this year’s blood drive successful. They came up with creative ways to encourage participation and showed great teamwork.
Donors expressed their appreciation for the thoughtful gestures and the warm atmosphere created by the students. One of the students who donated Nosipho Zikhali a third-year student for Nautical Sciences shared her excitement for being able to save lives. “It feels good to know that something as simple as donating blood can help save lives,’ she explained.
The campaign’s slogan “Give Blood. Get a Gift. Be a Hero” captured the spirit of the day, reminding everyone that even a small act of giving can have a lasting impact.
The Drive did not only strengthen the university’s community engagement efforts but also instilled a sense of responsibility in future healthcare professionals.
Once again, DUT’s Hot Shots Blood Donation Drive proved to be more than just a campus event, it was a powerful demonstration of compassion, teamwork, and the collective effort to save lives.
Pictured: Medical Laboratory Science students taking the lead at the Steve Biko Campus donation station during the Hot Shots Blood Donation Drive.
Pictured: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Sinamile Sithole
