The Student Development unit at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) proudly hosted its second annual Student Leadership Week (SLW) under the theme ‘Future Leaders: Building Tomorrow’s Successful Leaders Today.’ The two-day event is earmarked for Monday, 22 September 2025 to Friday, 25 September 2025 at two exciting venues: Indumiso Hall in Pietermaritzburg and Mansfield Hall in Durban.
The Student Leadership Week aimed to empower student leaders with the essential tools, knowledge, and experiences necessary to cultivate robust leadership skills, fostering a new generation of visionary leaders.
Dean of Students, Dr Clement Moreku, extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests, student leaders, and students, expressing gratitude for their presence. He emphasised that this gathering underscored the institution’s commitment to nurturing transformative leaders who are intellectually agile, ethically grounded, and empathetically responsive to the needs and complexities of others.
Dr Moreku noted that this year’s theme aligns closely with DUT’s strategic vision as outlined in Envision2030, which aims to cultivate adaptive graduates who are not just passive participants, but proactive architects and co-creators driving societal progress and advancement
“In today’s rapidly changing landscape of technological disruption, socio-economic volatility, and evolving governance paradigms, student leadership is more crucial than ever. The Student Leadership Week provides a platform for transformative energy, allowing us to re-examine leadership, reimagine systems, and develop the competencies needed to navigate tomorrow’s realities,” Dr Moreku explained.
Outgoing Students Representative Council (SRC) President at DUT, Solomzi Zoleka expressed gratitude for the opportunity to extend a message of support to the second annual student leadership week. He noted that the occasion was a remarkable opportunity to reflect on the values of true leadership, emphasising validity, inclusivity, and vision.
Zoleka highlighted that Student Leadership Week was a platform for dialogue, growth, and celebration of young leaders’ impact on the university, communities, and nation. He also mentioned that leadership at DUT is about serving and uplifting others, and that every student has a duty to inspire, innovate, and advocate for a just academic environment.
Dr Thuli Tabudi.
Dr Thuli Sizile Tabudi, an author, DUT Foundation member, mentor, and HR executive who has published a book titled: ‘Inspirational Leadership: Leadership Lessons from Kilimanjaro’ inspired students by sharing leadership lessons from her climb of Mount Kilimanjaro. She dove deep into the importance of resilience and reflection, urging leaders to draw strength from past challenges and to build a “repository” of perseverance to rely on during difficult times.
“The importance of vision starting with the end in mind helps leaders remain motivated and focused. It is not just about personal success but also about empowering others, creating sustainability, and grooming future leaders. Mental strength, more than physical ability, determines success, and leaders must train their minds to overcome obstacles with consistency and discipline,” she added.
Dr Tabudi reminded students to find their personal motivators to stay the course, to practice daily risk management, and to embrace challenges as part of life’s ongoing journey. Using the metaphor of isivivane, a pile of rocks that grows stronger with each addition, she showed that every experience contributes to growth. Her message was clear that leadership is about resilience, vision, preparation, empowerment, and reflection.
The panel discussion featured Ntsikelelo Nhlenyama as the facilitator, alongside three distinguished panelists: Dr David Mohale, Prof Fulufhelo Netswera, and Mr Muzomuhle Mhlongo, who shared their expertise.
The discussion on Student Leadership Development emphasised the importance of responsibility and identifying gaps in leadership. Dr Mohale defined leadership as a sense of responsibility and the ability to identify and address issues. Prof. Netswera highlighted that leadership is driven by love for people and the aspiration to develop them. He stressed the need for continuous engagement with role models to inspire future leaders.
Prof Netswera noted the confusion between activism and leadership, advocating for unpopular decision-making and inspiring followership. The conversation concluded with a call for sustained institutional support and student commitment to ensure the success and sustainability of leadership development programmes.
The discussion emphasised the importance of visionary leadership in student roles, urging leaders to have a clear end in mind and communicate their vision effectively. Leadership was described as a responsibility requiring knowledge, ideation, and awareness of societal issues.
The necessity of situational leadership, integrity, and effective communication was highlighted. Leaders were advised to lead by example, engage with diverse perspectives, and demonstrate courage of conviction. The role of student leaders in shaping institutional culture and values was underscored, with a call for them to contribute to long-term transformation, setting high standards for performance and responsibility.
The engagement between students and panelists showcased the student’s eagerness to learn about effective leadership. Through thoughtful questions, the panelists were able to offer profound guidance, deeply educating the students on the significance of leadership and its impact. This interactive session provided a unique opportunity for students to gain practical knowledge and perspectives from experienced leaders in the field.
In his closing remarks, DUT Registrar. Dr Maditsane Nkonoane expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests, student parliament, leaders of clubs and associations, and students for participating in the Student Leadership Week. Dr Nkonoane emphasised that leadership development was a collective effort, and that every staff member and student has a role to play in leading and shaping the institution’s future.
Pictured: Students excited to be part of the Student Leadership Week.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
