Adams College was filled with excitement and pride as it recently welcomed Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane. The registrar’s visit, in support of Student Recruitment initiatives, marked a special moment for the school, known for its outstanding academic achievements and consistently high matric pass rates. Adams College continues to inspire young minds, equipping them with the tools to lead and excel.
Michael Zulu, DUT’s Student Recruitment Officer and project leader, addressed the learners, emphasising the importance of education and the pursuit of excellence. He introduced them to the wide range of courses offered by DUT across various faculties, explaining entry requirements and other many opportunities available at DUT. He encouraged the learners to commit fully to their studies, emphasising that their dedication and good results could secure their future at the university.
Zulu also took the opportunity to remind learners about the Central Applications Office (CAO), explaining that DUT only accepts applications through this system. He urged them to apply on time, ensuring they pay the application fee. The students listened attentively, showing great enthusiasm as they engaged in discussions, asked questions, and sought guidance on career choices.
Dr Nkonoane spoke passionately about Adams College’s remarkable legacy, as the school turns 172 years this year, its continues to shape the future of the learners and produces top learners. “You are a very lucky cohort to have gained admission to a prestigious school like Adams College. You wear that school badge on your chest with pride,” he said.
He went on to highlight DUT’s prestigious ranking, proudly informing the students that DUT is ranked number five among South Africa’s 26 universities in terms of research output. Among the six universities of technology in the country, Dr Nkonoane explained that DUT stands at the top, making it the best university of technology in South Africa.
“My wish is to see you at DUT in January 2026 during orientation, but in order for that to happen, you need to remain focused,” Dr Nkonoane added. He encouraged the learners to dedicate themselves to their studies, emphasising that education is the key to not only transforming their own futures but also uplifting their families and the society.
Dr Nkonoane assured the learners that they would meet again at DUT’s orientation next year, where he would personally lead them in the reading of the DUT student pledge. He then shared the message with the learners extending his best wishes to them on their final high school journey, saying, “On behalf of the entire DUT family, we would like to wish you the very best for your final high school journey. We are extremely confident that your consistent, focused hard work will deliver the results you desire. We look forward to seeing you on one of our seven campuses in Durban or Pietermaritzburg next year.”
Dr Nkonoane commended the class of 2024 for their remarkable achievement, on obtaining the impressive 98% matric pass rate for 2024. “Notably, despite having a large number of matriculants, Adams College consistently demonstrated its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, achieving increasingly higher percentages of matric pass rates year after year,” he shared.
In recognition of the school’s success, DUT gifted Adams College with a first-aid kit, a beautifully decorated cake, DUT’s course guide that will guide learners in choosing their career, and essential study materials to support them on their educational journey.
Speaking on behalf of the students, school president Sthelosothando Magcaba expressed her deep appreciation to DUT’s Dr Nkonoane, and the student recruitment team. She acknowledged the significance of their visit, highlighting how it served as both a reminder and encouragement for learners to pursue higher education. “We feel truly privileged to have been visited by DUT and the Registrar. Your presence has not only provided us with valuable information but has also inspired and motivated us. We are now more determined than ever to take the next step in our academic journey,” said Magcaba.
Miss Dlamini, representing the school leadership, shared her gratitude and appreciation, extending special thanks to Mr Zulu for his unwavering support of Adams College. “We are truly grateful to Mr Zulu for his dedication to our school and for making the Registrar’s visit possible. This is a significant moment for us, we feel honoured and privileged to have DUT’s presence here,” she said. With confidence and determination, she then made a bold commitment: “This year, we will achieve a 100% matric pass rate,” said Dlamini.
The visit by Dr Nkonoane and DUT’s Students Recruitment team left a lasting impact on matric learners of Adams College, leaving them inspired and motivated to pursue their academic goals. The insightful discussions and valuable guidance provided a clearer path to higher education, reinforcing the importance of dedication and hard work.
Pictured: DUT’s Registrar Dr Maditsane Nkonoane and Adams College principal Mr Zulu.
Photography by Khulasande Tshayile .
Sinamile Sithole
