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. S’bonelo Dlamini, DUT Communication’s team member, recently engaged with the DUT athlete, Lwandle Ntuli to share her student experience through sports and academics and how she lives the DUT Living Values.
Name: Lwandle Ntuli
Place of birth: Newcastle
Sport code: Athletics
Qualification: Diploma in Management Sciences: Human Resources
Q: When did you join the DUT sport team?
A: “I joined the team last year, in 2024.”
Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “I was inspired by my mother, she was also an athlete growing up.”
Q: in terms of the position you play elaborate what it entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “Athletics is an individual sport, so I participate in 800 meters and 1500 meters as my events in athletics.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A: “I’ve never participated in any other sport codes other than athletics. My interest is only on athletics.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “It was the Track and Field National Championship in 2023 at Germiston in Gauteng.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sports?
A: “I believe sports can help students to develop skills such as time management, dedication, discipline and also with being consistent to achieve good results in both academic and sports.
Q: Who is your sport role model and why?
A: “My role model is Faith Kepyegon, she is a gold medalist in 1500 meters in Olympics. Her events are similar to mine so I am very much inspired by how she trains, how she keeps going no matter the circumstances she finds herself in.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles do you associate with and why?
A: “Respect and commitment. I believe that an athlete should be committed and be respectful to whatever sport she/he participate in. Without commitment there’s no dedication and passion. Without respect there’s no discipline. These are very important to consider in order to be a successful athlete in life.”
Q: Do you see a future in athletics?
A: “Yes, I do see a future in athletics. I still want to achieve my goals and I believe there’s more to achieve with this sport.”
Q: As a DUT sport star, how does your role benefit the community?
A: “I believe I am a good example when it comes to encouraging/inspiring young athletes who wish to be where I am today.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “I can proudly say without being an athlete I would probably be unaware on how to manage my studies and stress. Being an athlete I gained skills like discipline, more respect, time management and dedication.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sport?
A: “A good social media content tend to be an influence and may attract lots of spectators.”
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
