The Durban University of Technology (DUT), Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Department of Auditing and Taxation under the leadership of Professor Olive Stumke recently hosted its Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Design Thinking Final Presentations and Prize Giving event at the Protea Hotel Karridene Beach. The two-day event provided a dynamic platform for first year Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP) students to showcase their findings, solutions, and creativity on the Project based learning and design thinking project.
The initiative forms part of DUT’s commitment to innovative teaching and learning, blending Design Thinking methodologies with Project-Based Learning to strengthen student engagement and practical problem-solving. Over two days, eight student groups presented their work, demonstrating not only their academic growth but also their ability to think critically and collaboratively. The panel discussion on “Cultivating Innovation: The Role of Design Thinking and Project-Based Learning in Advancing DUT’s Educational Philosophy” further reinforced the value of these methodologies.
The event highlighted several key themes that underscored the Department’s commitment to innovative, student-centred learning. Central to the presentations was the spirit of innovation through Design Thinking, showcased through the project titled “Enhancing Compliance and Business Sustainability Among Spaza Shops: A Project-Based Learning Initiative for Internal Auditing & Taxation 1st Year ECP Students.” As part of this initiative, students developed a prototype aimed at helping spaza shop owners register their businesses easily, demonstrating how academic knowledge can be transformed into practical solutions that address real community needs. Collaboration emerged as a defining feature, with teams illustrating how collective problem-solving and peer learning enhance both understanding and outcomes.
The initiative also bridged theory and practice, giving first-year ECP students a valuable opportunity to apply classroom concepts in real-world contexts, thereby strengthening their confidence and workplace readiness. Mentorship from lecturers and CELT facilitators played a vital role, reflecting the strength of academic support and interdisciplinary engagement. Finally, the prize-giving ceremony celebrated excellence, creativity, and growth, reinforcing DUT’s culture of achievement and its ongoing commitment to embedding sustainable, innovative teaching practices such as Project-Based Learning and Design Thinking across the curriculum.
The event was made possible through the collective efforts and dedication of many individuals. The department would like to extend their sincere appreciation to Prof Stumke, the Head of Department, for her visionary leadership and for delivering the key remarks at the event. A special acknowledgment goes to Ms Nomfundo Nxumalo, ECP Lecturer, who meticulously organised and coordinated the entire programme, ensuring its smooth and successful execution, with invaluable support from Mr Sizwe Ntuli and Mr Malusi Biyela, both lecturers in the department.
Gratitude is also extended to Mr Brian Jiyane and Mr Samkelo Mbiyazi from the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT), whose guidance and insightful presentations particularly their session on “Building from Prototypes to Implementations” inspired students to think critically about the practical application of their innovative solutions. The event further benefited from the involvement of Sizwe Ntuli, Malusi Biyela, Phiwokuhle Mafulela, and Samkelo Mkhize, who served as panel members and played key roles in providing logistical support, contributing immensely to both the academic depth and the seamless flow of the programme.
Pictured: Attendees at the Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Design Thinking Final Presentations and Prize Giving event.
Professor Olive stumke/Nomfundo Nxumalo
