As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) aspires to produce adaptive graduates that will participate productively in the development of our region, country and the world. Mnqobi Ngobese, DUT Communications’ editorial team member, recently engaged with the DUT Athletics Club star Minenhle Ngubane, to share her student experience through sports and academics and how she lives the DUT Living Values.
Name: Minenhle Ngubane
Place of birth: Greytown
Sport code: Athletics
Qualification: Diploma in Management Accounting
Q: When did you join the DUT Sport Team?
A: “I joined the DUT sport in 2021, playing netball for the institution’s second team, however in 2022 I got an ankle injury which resulted in me leaving netball. After my recovery I then joined the DUT Athletics club.”
Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “Since primary school I have been a sport person playing all the different types of sport until I found potential in netball and athletics but what really sparked my interest was seeing my fellow high school peers going to the nationals for athletics.”
Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate what it entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “I am a thrower doing three events namely shot put, Javelin and discus but currently specialising in shot put. As a thrower I benefit the team with scoring points in throwing events.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A “Boxing and rugby, the reason being I believe that I am strong and I am a person who likes challenging herself physically when it comes to sport.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “The University Sport South Africa (USSA) and the KZN Championships.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sports?
A: “ Firstly, I will start with my physical and mental health which are most important because as a student you come to DUT for education but at times you need to shift your mind from the academics for mental health, so sport helps with staying physically fit and for the overall well-being.”
Q: Who is your sport role model and why?
A: My sport role models are Chase Jackson, Yolandi Stander and Shamera Sterling.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles do you associate with and why?
A: “Commitment, dedication to training, improving in every competition I go to and excellence because I strive for showcasing an exceptional performance and continuous improvement although sometimes I can be lazy.”
Q: Do you see a future in football?
A: “Yes, no reason for the indecisiveness is because at DUT we only have one coach for that. If we could get a coach who specialises in the field events, specifically for throwing, I would say I see a future in athletics.”
Q: As a DUT sport star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “I Inspire young athletes which have potential to pursue their dreams in the sport, especially those from households with no sporting background.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “It has impacted me in a positive way and to a point where I do not have time to involve myself into any wrongdoing and keep myself physically fit. If I am not attending lectures I am at practice, gym or training meaning I barely get the time to do other things.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sport?
A: “There should be recruitment programmes where first year students will be introduced to the DUT sport and the benefits of being an athlete. Also, recognition and award programmes at the end of the year to honour outstanding players and teams which can motivate athletes and generate interest to those who don’t know much about the DUT sport or athletes playing for other clubs, whilst they are DUT registered students.”
