The International Education and Partnerships (IEP) hosted the 2022 International students’ farewell luncheon at the Little India Restaurant, Durban on Tuesday, 29 November 2022. The luncheon was held to celebrate and appreciate international students as they complete their studies at DUT and are about to embark on new endeavors in their lives.

The event kick started with an amazing performance by Chiko Mujeni, who’s also a DUT International Students and this year’s member of the executive committee for the International Students Organization (ISO).

Ms Carol Newman, International Education Officer (IEP) then welcomed everyone with a few opening remarks. Thanking all the international students for choosing DUT and adding value to the DUT and South African community. Further acknowledging their bravery and perseverance since they often encounter a lot of challenges, such as issues around, delays in issuing of study visas, language barriers, adjusting to new environment, culture differences and beliefs etc.

The keynote was given by Dr Isaac Dennis Amoah, who’s now a Professor at the University of Arizona. He congratulated all the students on their individual academic achievements, and said he wished that they could take all the skills and knowledge acquired at DUT and use it to positively to shape their future and further encouraged them to pursue post graduate studies, “It is better to have a qualification and not need it than to need it and not have it” he said. “Learn to build and maintain relationships where ever you go. Keep growing, always remember what DUT has given you. You are part of the DUT community for life now. I wish you all the best in life and in your future journeys. Always remember that you are a child of many villages now,” he concluded.

During the event, the 2021/2022 (ISO) executive committee was awarded certificates as a token of appreciation. The awards were handed by Mr Masiza Ngculu: Manager, Student Development and Governance. The outgoing ISO executives gave Ms Philiswa Mncube a gift as a token of appreciation for the support they’ve received from her during their time in leadership as the ISO executive committee.

The International Office further announced the forming of the International Students’ Alumni (ISA) Society where the International Students at the end of their studies would participate as alumni, assist in mentorship and provide support to International students. The Society was well received though it is at its starting point, and many alumni, like Prof Amoah, Mr Duncan Chiriga, Mr Daniel Matabishi, Mr Jean Marc Kakudji, Parfait Mujinga to name a few have committed to engage and are willing to also offer financial aid for some students in need where possible.

In closing, Ms Elsie Badze, Public Relations Officer, ISO 2021/2022, thanked everyone who ensured that the event was a great success. She was also thankful for the opportunity to be a DUT student and the treatment she has received thus far. The programme was steered by Ms Sakhile Khoza who is also an International student from the Kingdom of Eswatini and Deputy President for the ISO 2021/2022.

Pictured: Outgoing DUT International Students committee.

Nomvelo Zulu