The Communications Unit at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) hosted a workshop at the DUT Hotel School on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, bringing together Faculty Media Officers and departmental representatives to strengthen collaboration and enhance strategic communication across the institution.
The session focused on improving content creation, ensuring consistency in messaging, and aligning communication efforts with DUT’s ENVISION2030 Strategy. As the custodian of the university’s brand, the Communications Unit continues to play a key role in promoting a unified institutional voice and strengthening DUT’s public image.
Opening the workshop, Communications Manager Mr Tiyani Mboweni emphasised the importance of a coordinated approach to communication, urging departments to align their messaging with the Communications Office. He highlighted the need for clear, audience-focused content, effective use of digital platforms, and the sharing of impactful stories that showcase student and staff achievements.
Mboweni further emphasised the importance of profiling stories of innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly those emanating from Innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and the Centre for Social Entrepreneurship (CSE). He noted that such stories not only drive transformation but also reinforce DUT’s identity as a leading entrepreneurial university. He encouraged both units to actively share and communicate their stories with the Communications Unit to ensure they are effectively amplified across institutional platforms.
Pictured: Communications Manager Mr Tiyani Mboweni emphasises the importance of a coordinated approach to communication.
“There are times when strong stories are shared on limited platforms, missing the opportunity to reach wider audiences. We need to ensure that such content is channelled through our institutional platforms to maximise visibility and impact,” said Mboweni.
The workshop provided a platform for participants to discuss strategies for strengthening communication within their faculties. Asanda Dzelwa from the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment highlighted that their communication efforts are guided by operational plans and key performance indicators, requiring consistent and independent content production. Meanwhile, Sinelisiwe Hlongwane from the Centre for Social Entrepreneurship (CSE) noted the need to balance communication requirements between DUT and its partner, the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), particularly for community-based initiatives.
Samkelo Mayeza from the Faculty of Health Sciences described the workshop as productive, noting, “The session provided valuable insights and practical strategies for improving communication across our faculties. It has strengthened our collaboration and will help us tell the DUT story more effectively.”
Mboweni also stressed the importance of professionalism when using both personal and official social media platforms. He noted that all content must be approved, accurate, and aligned with university policies. He further outlined best practices, including the use of high-quality visuals, strategic posting, and active audience engagement, to maintain the university’s reputation and enhance visibility.
In his closing remarks, Mboweni thanked participants for their active engagement and commitment to promoting the university’s excellence, encouraging continued collaboration in showcasing DUT’s impact, innovation, and achievements.
Pictured: After a successful communications workshop, the team came together to celebrate learning, growth, and collaboration.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile/ S’bonelo Dlamini
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