The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Student Representative Council (SRC) is participating in an international benchmarking and leadership exchange programme at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) in Tanzania, strengthening continental partnerships while advancing DUT’s commitment to developing globally minded student leaders.
The visit, which forms part of DUT’s internationalisation agenda, is providing an opportunity for student leaders to benchmark best practices, exchange ideas and explore innovative approaches to governance, leadership development and student support. Through a series of engagements, delegates from both institutions are sharing experiences and identifying strategies to enhance the overall student experience at their respective universities.
The programme is featuring presentations on institutional governance, student affairs, clubs and societies, parliamentary structures, leadership development and student representation. Delegates are also participating in interactive discussions aimed at strengthening collaboration, promoting knowledge exchange and identifying opportunities for future cooperation between the two institutions.
The benchmarking visit builds on the partnerships established during the Continental Student Leadership Summit recently hosted by DUT, transforming dialogue into practical collaboration between African universities. It also reflects the University’s ENVISION2030 strategy by fostering leadership development, collaboration and partnerships that contribute to the advancement of higher education across the continent.
DUT SRC President, Mr Sihle Nkosi, said the visit is providing valuable insights into student leadership and governance while strengthening relationships with fellow African student leaders.
“This exchange is giving us an opportunity to engage with student leaders who share many of the same aspirations and challenges that we do. By learning from one another, we are identifying innovative ideas and best practices that can strengthen student governance at DUT while also building lasting relationships across the continent. As the programme continues, we are gaining valuable insights that we look forward to implementing at DUT to enhance the student experience and contribute to the continued growth of our institution.”
Manager: Student Governance and Development, Mr Masiza Ngculu, said international benchmarking remains an important platform for developing future-ready student leaders.
“Leadership development extends beyond the classroom. Exposing our student leaders to different institutional environments enables them to broaden their perspectives, appreciate diverse approaches to governance and return with practical insights that can enrich leadership at DUT. This exchange also strengthens the bonds between African universities and reinforces our shared commitment to advancing higher education on the continent.”
Beyond the formal programme, the visit is fostering cultural exchange, professional networking and meaningful relationships, enabling delegates to gain a deeper appreciation of the diverse higher education environments across Africa. These engagements are expected to strengthen collaboration between DUT and the University of Dar es Salaam, creating opportunities for future initiatives that will benefit students at both institutions.
As the programme continues, the DUT delegation remains committed to sharing institutional best practices, learning from its counterparts and identifying practical solutions to strengthen student leadership and governance. The knowledge and insights being gained through the exchange will support DUT’s vision of producing socially responsible graduates and leaders who are equipped to make a meaningful impact in their communities, across South Africa and throughout the African continent.
Pictured: SRC leaders at an international benchmarking and leadership exchange programme at the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) in Tanzania.
Tiyani Mboweni
