As part of its ENVISION2030 strategy, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) is committed to producing adaptive graduates who contribute meaningfully to the development of the region, South Africa and the world. Through sport, the University continues to promote discipline, leadership, teamwork and resilience, while supporting the holistic development of students both on and off the field.
S’bonelo Dlamini, a member of the DUT Communications team, recently sat down with DUT e-sports star Shoaib Butt to discuss his sporting journey, what inspired his passion for e-sports and how he embodies the DUT Living Values through his participation in university sport.
Name: Shoaib Muhammad Butt
Place of birth: Phoenix, Durban
Sport code: E-Sports
Qualification: Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Chemical Engineering
Q: When did you join the DUT sport team?
A: “I have been an affiliated member since the beginning of 2025.”
Q: What sparked your interest in e-sports?
A: “I have always had a passion for FIFA and EA FC growing up. I started off on the PlayStation 2 like many of us and worked my way up. I have been playing the game since I was nine years old, and I also love football as a sport, so it was a no-brainer for me to enjoy playing football video games.”
Q: In terms of the role you play in your team, what does it entail and how does it benefit the team?
A: “In 2026, I was voted as one of three e-sports committee leaders. This year, I have been working more on the technical side of things at DUT, including recruiting new members to e-sports and making the environment better for those who are already affiliated.
“I am not just a player. I also try to lead by example by playing to the best of my ability in every game, with the aim of putting my team and DUT at the top.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “I play Division 1 football for a team in Phoenix. I have always been intrigued by DUT’s football sport code, so I would say football is the sport I am most interested in besides playing it in video games.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “The biggest tournament I have participated in was E-Sports University Sports South Africa (USSA) in 2025. It included some of the best university players from around South Africa, including players who have since signed professional contracts. I performed well there and finished at the top of my group.”
Q: Why is it important for DUT to develop students through sport?
A: “I am studying Chemical Engineering, so I know how stressful university can be. No matter what qualification you are pursuing, it can be difficult and you need something to help you relax. I feel that being involved in sport is very therapeutic, especially if you are studying a more demanding course.”
Q: Who is your role model and why?
A: “I have watched football my entire life and one person I loved watching was Ricardo Kaka. I am a Christian, so seeing him always playing to the best of his ability while remaining close to his faith was something that always inspired me.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Value do you associate with and why?
A: “I associate with integrity. Being a sportsman makes me practise integrity and fairness, no matter who the opposition is. I try to live out this ENVISION2030 value with every game that I play.”
Q: Do you see a future in e-sports?
A: “E-sports is a growing field, especially in South Africa. If you love what you do, you will never have to work a day in your life. So, I would love to play e-sports professionally one day or pursue it as a career in the future.”
Q: As a DUT sports star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “As one of the e-sports committee leaders, I always try to carry myself professionally and selflessly. I try to bring that attitude into my everyday life and help everyone in my community by being a role model to them.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “I have been playing e-sports since I was in primary school. I always saw it as an escape from reality and a way to calm myself down after a stressful day or during exams.
“I have always done well academically, and e-sports has been a major factor in improving my mood and confidence, which has ultimately helped me positively in every area of my life.”
Q: What can be done to attract more spectators to varsity sport?
A: “I think the role of social media is getting bigger with each passing year. Digital platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp Channels and Facebook play a key role. I feel that the more we invest in these platforms, the more spectators we can attract to varsity sport.”
