As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) aspires to produce adaptive graduates who will participate productively in the development of the region, the country, and the world. Through sport, the University continues to nurture discipline, leadership, teamwork, and holistic student development.
Tiyani Mboweni, a member of the DUT Communications team, recently engaged with DUT dancesport star Mpilwenhle Mthethwa, who graduated with a Bachelor of Food Science and Technology degree at the 2026 DUT Autumn Graduation Ceremony, to share his journey in sport, his passion for dance, and how he lives the DUT Living Values through his involvement in varsity sport.
Names: Mpilwenhle Prosperity Mthethwa
Place of Birth: Mtubatuba
Sport Code: Dancesport
Q: When did you become part of the DUT dance club?
A: “I became part of the DUT Dance club in March 2020.”
Q: What sparked your interest in the DUT Dance club?
A: “I have always been part of dance. Joining the club was a stepping stone for me to learn more, broaden my horizons and finally get a chance to be part of the professional dancers team.”
Q: In terms of the role you play as a DUT Dance member, kindly elaborate on what it entails and how it benefits the members within your club?
A: “As an active participant in the dance community, it is important that we assist those who are still in the learning stages of their craft. It benefits other dancers because it helps them see where they need to grow and also helps us build lasting relationships within the DUT community.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “Aerobics, because it builds stamina and endurance. It is a very interesting sport that develops not only physical ability but also mental strength.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “The USSA Championships.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sport?
A: “So that students learn the importance of being part of a community and understand why teamwork is important. Sports are the cornerstone of building discipline and accountability.”
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: “Beyoncé. I have always looked at her as the epitome of hard work and dedication. She is someone who ensures that she takes care of her craft and always delivers high quality. That is what I have always wanted for myself too.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 living values and principles do you associate with and why?
A: “Respect. I identify strongly with respect because I have learned that it is very important to respect everyone we come across, whether they are older or younger. As dancers, we meet many people, and we must remind ourselves that there is always something to learn from others on a daily basis.”
Q: Do you see a future as a dancer?
A: “Yes, I most definitely do, as dance has been part of my life since I was 11 years old.”
Q: What impact has dance made on your life?
A: “Dance has helped me through very difficult situations in my life. I often feel that when I am not doing well mentally, dance has always been there as a way to express those feelings and emotions.”
Q: Having recently graduated at the 2026 DUT Autumn Graduation Ceremony; how does it feel to achieve this milestone while also reflecting on your journey through sport and your development within DUT?
A: “It feels amazing to have reached this point of graduating. As a dancer, I learned a lot about how to balance sport and academics, which made me very good at managing my time effectively.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sport?
A: “More awareness campaigns about the different sports codes available at DUT. It is important that students understand why sport is encouraged and why it is important to participate in it.”
