The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Communications Unit under Corporate Affairs proudly hosted its fourth Annual Media Day 2025 on Friday 5 December 2025 at the Garden Court Marine Parade, bringing together journalists, editors, broadcasters and digital media professionals to honour their partnership with the university and to reflect on DUT’s milestones and achievements for the year. Guided by this year’s theme, “Driving Societal Impact through Research, Innovation and Engagement,” the event highlighted DUT’s commitment to advancing knowledge, fostering community partnerships and collaborating with the media to tell meaningful and impactful stories.
Programme Director and DUT Communications Assistant, Mr Nkululeko Mbatha, opened the programme by welcoming guests and setting a vibrant tone for the gathering. Senior Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Alan Khan, then delivered a warm welcome address, acknowledging the crucial role the media plays in shaping public understanding of DUT’s work. With a touch of humour, he noted the presence of experienced journalists and communicators and emphasised how Media Day is a celebration of partnership and shared purpose.
“This day, in my view, is an affirmation of our partnership, trust and our shared purpose between DUT and the journalists, editors, broadcasters, executive producers, photographers, digital storytellers and content creators who help shape the public understanding of Durban University of Technology,” said Mr Khan.
He further highlighted that 2025 has been a significant year for DUT, marked by research excellence, innovative breakthroughs and global recognition. He celebrated DUT’s historic hosting of the 2025 Global Urban Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition the first time the event was held on African soil and acknowledged the exceptional performance of DUT students who won silver and bronze medals. He also spoke about the launch of one of Africa’s most advanced Smart Robotics Labs and the university’s strengthened position in global rankings, with DUT placed among the top six percent of universities worldwide.
He reminded guests that DUT’s achievements are guided by its living values transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability and its ENVISION2030 philosophy: “Our creativity and innovation shapes adaptive graduates who transform society.” Mr Khan concluded by thanking the media for their fairness and professionalism throughout the year and extended his festive season well wishes.
The programme also featured DUT’s Community Engagement Unit, represented by Ms Phumzile Xulu, who shared insights into the university’s community-based initiatives. She explained that DUT’s approach aligns directly with the Media Day theme, as the institution continuously strives to drive societal impact through collaborative community work, responsive teaching, and transformative research. Xulu emphasised that unemployment and limited access to career opportunities remain major challenges across South Africa, particularly for youth in rural and township communities. For this reason, the university integrates engagement, entrepreneurship and innovation within its curriculum to uplift communities and empower students.
She highlighted the extensive schools outreach programme, which assists more than 100 high schools annually especially in deep rural areas through career guidance and application support. In 2025 alone, this programme reached more than 8,000 learners. Xulu also spoke about a powerful student-led initiative through which DUT students return to their former schools to assist Grade 12 learners with university applications. She explained that this year, 48 DUT students supported over 80 schools and helped more than 1,600 learners submit their applications.
The programme also featured Mr Samkelo Mtshali from the innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, who highlighted key student entrepreneurship projects from 2025 and shared exciting plans for 2026.
Ms Nomthandazo Sibiya-Dlomo, a lecturer and doctoral student in Chemical Engineering, shared her insights into her research dissertation titled “Heavy Metals Reduction from Industrial Effluents Using Hybrid Bio-Adsorbents.” She explained that the primary goal of her study is to explore the use of various agricultural by-products and food waste as effective adsorbents for removing heavy metals from wastewater.
“My research focuses on developing novel hybrid bio-adsorbents by immobilising magnetised sugarcane bagasse, banana peels, or orange peels with microalgae. These innovative materials are designed to reduce harmful heavy metals such as copper, lead, and chromium in industrial effluents,” she highlighted.
Sibiya-Dlomo’s research has been recognised with multiple awards, emphasising its relevance and potential impact, especially in the context of water scarcity and environmental concerns. She encouraged young women to pursue STEM careers, stressing the importance of knowing one’s roots and capabilities.
Assistant Registrar Dr Ntombenhle Nombela-Mseleku has encouraged applicants to use the correct application routes and to remain realistic as DUT works through an exceptionally high number of submissions. “This year, we received 345,000 applications, yet the university has capacity for only 9,454 first-year places,” she noted.
She clarified that all school leavers must apply via the Central Applications Office (CAO), while returning students and transfer applicants should apply directly through DUT’s online application system.
“CAO applications are strictly for first-time entering applicants. Any returning or transfer student who applies through CAO will not receive feedback because their applications must be submitted directly to DUT,” she explained.
DUT Communications Manager, Mr Tiyani Mboweni, addressed media professionals during Media Day, emphasising the importance of strong partnerships between the media and the university. He encouraged closer collaboration to amplify DUT’s stories, achievements, and community impact. Mboweni shared his vision of positioning DUT as a trusted, influential source of information in KwaZulu-Natal and nationally, noting that through genuine collaboration and a shared commitment to public service, DUT can continue to lead in credible and transformative storytelling.
DUT Media Officer, Ms Simangele Zuma, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the media for their continued support and partnership with the Durban University of Technology. She highlighted the university’s strong commitment to driving societal impact through research, innovation, and community engagement.
Zuma acknowledged the media’s vital role in amplifying DUT’s achievements, promoting transparency, and ensuring that the public remains informed about the institution’s progress. Looking ahead, she emphasised the importance of deepening this partnership and encouraged the media to continue offering space for the university to share its voice and perspective.
Photography: S’bonelo Dlamini
Sinamile Sithole/Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
