Outstanding academic achievement, exceptional leadership and meaningful contributions to student life will once again take centre stage as the Durban University of Technology (DUT) prepares to host the 2026 Student Academic and Leadership Excellence Awards.
The annual awards recognise students, residences, clubs, societies and student leaders whose achievements extend beyond academic success, celebrating those who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, leadership, service and a commitment to making a positive impact within the DUT community and beyond.
Throughout the year, students across the University have gone beyond the classroom to transform lives, strengthen communities and enrich campus life. From leading impactful community outreach initiatives and promoting student wellness to driving entrepreneurship, championing diversity and inclusion, and inspiring academic excellence, these individuals and student structures embody the values of responsible leadership and active citizenship.
Aligned with DUT’s ENVISION2030 strategy, the awards celebrate individuals and student organisations whose contributions reflect the University’s commitment to excellence, innovation, collaboration and social impact while inspiring positive change within higher education and society.
Awards will be presented across several categories that recognise excellence in leadership, innovation, residence life, entrepreneurship, sport, inclusion and student development, including:
- Dean of Students Prestigious Award
- Sportsmanship Award
- Promotion of Healthy Lifestyle Award
- Exemplary Society/Club/Structure Award
- Outstanding Residence Life Award
- Student Entrepreneurship Award
- Emerging Leader Award (First-Year Student)
- Diversity and Inclusion Award
The Student Academic and Leadership Excellence Awards provide an important platform for recognising students and student structures whose achievements continue to shape the University’s culture of excellence and contribute to the holistic development of the DUT community.
Students, staff, residences, clubs, societies and recognised student organisations are encouraged to prepare their nominations and supporting portfolios showcasing outstanding achievements and impact. Information regarding the nomination process, eligibility criteria and submission deadlines, together with the date, venue and programme for the awards ceremony, will be announced in due course.
The Student Academic and Leadership Excellence Awards reaffirm DUT’s commitment to recognising and celebrating students whose academic achievements, leadership, innovation and service continue to advance the University’s ENVISION2030 vision and inspire positive change within their communities and beyond.
Pictured: Registrar Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, at last year’s Student Academic and Leadership Excellence Awards.
Story: Supplied
