The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane recently led a visit to Ohlange High School, accompanied by the DUT Student Recruitment team. Dr Nkonoane congratulated the school on its 124th anniversary and wished the learners exceptional success in the 2025 academic year, extending special wishes to the matriculants as they prepare for their trial and final exams.
DUT Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane celebrating Mafukuzela Week with Ohlange High School.
Ohlange High School which was founded by Dr John Langalibalele Dube in 1901, celebrated Mafukuzela Week with DUT Registrar. Excitement was written on the faces of the school Principal, Deputy Principal, educators, and learners as they celebrated with visible joy and enthusiasm from the learners adding to the electric atmosphere.
In his opening remarks, Mr Siyanda Aubrey Nxumalo, the school Principal, warmly welcomed the DUT Registrar, the Student Recruitment team, and learners for their presence, stating that celebrating Mafukuzela Week was particularly significant for the school as it honoured their rich heritage and legacy. He stated that DUT cared about the future and the direction that the learners were going to take.
Mr Michael Zulu, DUT’s Student Recruitment Officer, addressed the learners, emphasising the importance of education and striving for excellence. Mr Zulu gave the learners DUT prospectus and introduced them to DUT’s diverse range of courses across various faculties, explaining entry requirements and highlighting the numerous opportunities available. He encouraged the learners to fully commit to their studies and mentioned that dedication and strong results could pave the way for a successful future at the university.
Mr Zulu also seized the opportunity to remind learners about the Central Applications Office (CAO), emphasising that DUT only accept applications that come through CAO. He walked them through the application process, highlighting the importance of meeting deadlines, paying the application fee, and carefully selecting their preferred courses.
DUT Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, shared the inspiring story of Dr John Langalibalele Dube, a visionary leader who traveled to the United States of America and returned with a vision to uplift his community. In 1901, Dr Dube founded the Ohlange Institute, a school that provided African children with access to education, empowering them for a brighter future.
He excitedly said he is hoping to see the class of 2025 at DUT’s 2026 Orientation. “Consider DUT as your intellectual home, this decision would be a life-enriching choice that would bring no regrets,” Dr Nkonoane explained.
In engaging with learners, it became clear that the DUT visit had increased motivation and enthusiasm among them. Noluthando Khambule, a Grade 12 learner, shared that the visit from DUT had broadened her vision for her future. She got the opportunity to ask questions to the Student Recruitment team, particularly about studying Chemical Engineering at DUT.
“As DUT is the institution I have been hoping to attend, this visit has fuelled my passion to study there. Hearing about DUT’s Living Values and Principles, which align with some of the values we already live by, was inspiring. It has given me clarity and motivation to pursue my dreams at DUT,” she explained.
DUT Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane handed over a gift to Ohlange High School, which was received by Deputy Principal, Mr Lindani Gumede.
In his closing remarks, Deputy Principal Mr Lindani Gumede expressed gratitude to DUT for visiting the school and encouraged learners to focus on their studies. He highlighted that DUT’s presence demonstrated their genuine care for the future of young people. Furthermore, in the presence of the DUT Registrar and the School Principal, he made a commitment that the learners would not disrupt or interrupt university plans. He also emphasised the importance of the DUT Living Values, particularly respect that learners would benefit from, and how these values would positively impact their lives as they adopted them.
Following the celebration, DUT Registrar, Dr Nkonoane, and the Student Recruitment team took the opportunity to pay their respects at the late Dr Dube monument, reflecting on his enduring legacy and contributions. They also explored the interpretation centre, gaining a deeper understanding of the historical significance and cultural importance of the monument.
Pictured: DUT Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane with learners from Ohlange High School.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
