Three Durban University of Technology (DUT) students, Zakhe Khuzwayo, Luyanda Majozi, and Thembelihle Mathaba, have been selected to participate in the prestigious Erasmus+ Exchange Programme in Finland. This esteemed programme offers students a unique opportunity to study abroad, and gain valuable academic and life experiences. The Erasmus+ Exchange Programme is designed to promote international cooperation and mobility in higher education, allowing students to take part in academic exchanges that foster personal growth, academic excellence, and cross-cultural understanding.
The exchange was funded by the European Union and coordinated with Jyväskylän ammattikorkeakoulu (Jamk) University of Applied Sciences, started running from August 2025 to December 2025. Sharing their journey, the students highlighted the challenges and opportunities they encountered during the application process. They emphasised the importance of careful planning, coordination, and communication with both DUT and the host university.
One of the students, Zakhe Khuzwayo, said he was deeply honoured and excited, stating that the achievement was not just personal but also a breakthrough for his family, community, and the students he represented, as it offered opportunities for growth, exposure, and meaningful contributions to global conversations on innovation and youth leadership.
In giving advice to students, Khuzwayo said: “Opportunities like these are possible when you stay committed, curious, and consistent. Take part in campus initiatives, engage with support structures like innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and never stop believing in your potential. DUT has the platforms, you just need to show up and engage.”
Sharing his goals, he said, “I plan to absorb as much knowledge and cultural experience as possible, build meaningful networks, and return with new ideas that I can apply through The Men Carve Organisation and other youth development projects. I aim to grow as a global minded leader, ready to innovate and impact change locally and beyond.”
Thembelihle Mathaba said she was thrilled to be in Finland as a Master’s student, representing DUT. She was excited to learn from esteemed faculty, engage with diverse peers, and gain insights that would propel her career forward, stating that Finland’s innovative spirit and emphasis on excellence aligned perfectly with her aspirations.
Mathaba shared the modules she will be taking, which include Finnish for Beginners, Strategic Management, Global Sales Management, Entrepreneurship, InnoFlash, and the Future Factory Project. She further stated that their modules are not the same as they will be doing different courses.
The three students expressed their gratitude to innobiz DUT for the opportunity to pursue their studies. They appreciated the support and resources provided, which enabled them to grow academically and professionally. The students felt honoured to be part of the initiative and looked forward to applying their knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact.
Pictured: Three DUT students at Jamk University of Applied Sciences, Zakhe Khuzwayo, Thembelihle Mathaba and Luyanda Majozi.
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
