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 Football Club’s left back Mlulamisi Khowa, to share his student experience through sports and academics and how she lives the DUT Living Values.
Name: Mulamisi Khowa
Place of birth: Port Shepstone, Gamalakhe
Sport code: Football
Qualification: Advanced diploma in Public relations and communications management
Q: When did you join the DUT Sport Team?
A: “ I joined the DUT sport team in 2019.”
Q: What sparked your interest in this type of sport?
A: “My dad was a key factor in me actually playing the sport, from childhood he had influenced me into supporting Orlando Pirates and I eventually fell in love with the game.”
Q: In terms of the position you play, elaborate what it entails and how it benefits the team?
A: “As a left back, I have defensive and offensive duties. I guess one could say that my position is the powerhouse of wing play, it gives the team that edge and effective runs from deep to help create chances and defend creative plays from the opponents.”
Q: Which other sport codes are you interested in and why?
A “Football is my sport code, it’s the one sport that I have passion for. Within those boundaries within the field all of lives problems seem to vanish and a great sense of peace comes to settle.”
Q: What is the biggest tournament you have participated in?
A: “I have participated in the USSA championship.”
Q: Why is it vital for DUT to develop students in sports?
A: “ Surprisingly, institutions are mostly known for their participation in sports, not only will they produce quality athletes but the institution could attract sponsors and gain international recognition too.”
Q: Who is your sport role model and why?
A: “ My role model is Theo Hernandez, he is exceptional at the position he plays.”
Q: Which ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles do you associate with and why?
A: “Commitment, I believe that commitment is the cousin of discipline and relating yourself to these will in due time get you your desired goal. This is a testimony to what we have achieved as a team, from winning our stream to qualifying for the varsity cup.”
Q: Do you see a future in football?
A: “ For myself not as much anymore but within the team, yes, of course we also have a few rising stars.”
Q: As a DUT sport star, how does your role benefit your community?
A: “They have someone to point at proudly and say that he has excelled and balanced academics and sport. This can serve as a form of motivation to them.”
Q: What impact has sport made on your life?
A: “I have firstly become fitter, helped me shape discipline and make quicker choices that have less negative consequences. It has given me a sense of identity as I am part of a successful team.”
Q: Can you suggest some ideas to attract spectators to varsity sport?
A: “Going all out in advertising, school/community engagements, resident engagement during match days, social media posts and inviting potential fans to come and watch our home games.”
