Siphamandla Asanda Mbatha, a third year Bachelor of the Built Environment in Construction Studies (Quantity Surveying) student from the Durban University of Technology (DUT) visited Umzilikazi Senior Secondary School, Newcastle in July 2025 as part of the UNI4ALL Programme supported by the DUT Community Engagement.
The initiative aims to assist grade 12 learners in applying for tertiary education, particularly through online platforms. UNI4ALL not only supports learners with university applications but also provides DUT students with resources to offer career guidance and assist learners making informed decisions.
Mbatha, who hails from a rural area of Vryheid KwaNtabakhulu describes himself as someone passionate about helping others and breaking boundaries. “I love trying new things, especially those that seem impossible in my surroundings. I believe I was born for greater things, and that is why my mind is always searching for new ideas,” he said.
Though this was his first time participating in the UNI4ALL Programme, Mbatha has been assisting learners in his community with university and college applications since enrolling with DUT in 2023. He explained the challenges many rural learners face: “Many learners in my area don’t know what they want to study after matric. Instead, they want to find work. One of the biggest barriers is access to internet data and the knowledge required to complete online applications. This often leads to incomplete or error-filled submissions.”
Mbatha’s visit to Umzilikazi Senior Secondary School was well received by the learners, one learner shared their appreciation:
“Your presence was super helpful. You broke down complex concepts into manageable chunks, and I was able to keep up with my applications and understand more about the application process,” he said.
Looking ahead, Mbatha is poised to launch an organization dedicated to alleviating a significant barrier to higher education: university application fees for Grade 12 learners, a challenge he personally navigated. The DUT’s Community Engagement unit views this as a vital opportunity, expressing keen interest in future collaborations with Mbatha. These prospective initiatives would leverage collective student involvement and faculty support, aiming to extend their positive impact within the community.
Pictured: Siphamandla Asanda Mbatha
Mthetheleli Meyiwa
