A tree planted, a garden established and a conversation sparked about the future of science. This was the spirit of the Durban University of Technology’s Mandela Day engagement at uMlazi Comprehensive Technical High School (uMlazi Comtech), where the Faculty of Applied Sciences transformed 67 minutes of service into a lasting investment in young minds and sustainable community development.
Held on 17 July 2026, the initiative was led by Dr Nokuthula Vilakazi from the Department of Food and Nutrition in the Faculty of Applied Sciences. The engagement formed part of the University’s Mandela Day activities, honouring Nelson Mandela’s legacy through meaningful action, collaboration and community upliftment.
Supported by industry partner Unilever, the initiative aimed to inspire future scientists, promote food and nutrition education, strengthen partnerships with schools and expose learners to opportunities in science, technology, entrepreneurship and sustainability.
Located on Griffiths Mxenge Highway in Durban, uMlazi Comprehensive Technical High School has built a reputation as one of South Africa’s leading public technical schools. Offering specialised technical, commercial and humanities streams, the school continues to achieve strong academic results, particularly in science and innovation.
For the Faculty of Applied Sciences, the Mandela Day engagement represented more than a community outreach activity. It created an opportunity to strengthen ties with a high performing school, introduce learners to higher education opportunities and encourage them to pursue careers in science based disciplines.
The programme highlighted career pathways in food science, nutrition, consumer sciences and sustainability while demonstrating how science can provide practical solutions to challenges facing communities.
Although uMlazi Comtech has a strong academic record and emphasis on science education, the Department of Food and Nutrition has not enrolled learners from the school in recent years. The initiative sought to strengthen the relationship between the two institutions and raise awareness of the opportunities available at the University.
The delegation was welcomed by Mr Makubongwe Khumalo, Deputy Principal of uMlazi Comtech and an alumnus of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, together with Consumer Studies educator Mr Hector Hlatswayo.
One of the highlights of the programme was the establishment of a sustainable garden and tree planting initiative at the school. The project demonstrated the relationship between food production, nutrition, agriculture, environmental sustainability and food security, giving learners practical insight into how scientific knowledge can contribute to sustainable solutions within their communities.
Mr Hlatswayo expressed his appreciation for the partnership and support received from the University and Unilever.
“We are deeply grateful for the University’s contribution, the establishment of this wonderful garden and the generous donations from Unilever. This initiative enriches our learners’ educational environment and practical learning.”
Representing Unilever, Human Resources Assistant Manager Mr Siboniso Khulu highlighted the value of collaborative community initiatives.
“It was a privilege to be part of an initiative that continues to inspire our communities. Mandela Day reminds us that through collective service we can make a meaningful difference.”
Learners also had the opportunity to engage with inspiring role models who demonstrated how education, innovation and entrepreneurship can create meaningful opportunities.
University alumna Ms Sinenhlanhla Mbambo, founder of Something Nutritious, joined the initiative as a guest speaker. A Consumer Science graduate, entrepreneur and motivational speaker, she shared her journey with learners, illustrating how academic knowledge can be transformed into innovative solutions and sustainable business ventures.
Her message encouraged learners to view science as a pathway to creativity, entrepreneurship and community impact while demonstrating how young professionals can use their knowledge to solve real world challenges.
The success of the Mandela Day initiative was made possible through the collective efforts of academic staff, students, industry partners and community stakeholders.
The Department of Food and Nutrition collaborated with the Department of Horticulture to provide learners with practical knowledge and support for the sustainability project.
Ms Anjella Reddy, lecturer and PhD candidate in the Department of Food and Nutrition, contributed plants towards the initiative and supported its educational objectives.
Mr Zwelonke Beato from the Department of Horticulture provided technical expertise for the tree planting and establishment of the garden, ensuring the project was guided by sound horticultural knowledge and sustainable practices.
Through initiatives such as this, the Faculty of Applied Sciences continues to advance the University’s commitment to community engagement, science education, sustainability and youth development.
The Mandela Day engagement at uMlazi Comtech was more than 67 minutes of service. It marked the beginning of a partnership founded on education, opportunity and sustainability, planting seeds that have the potential to grow into future scientists, entrepreneurs and leaders.
Pictured: Attendees at the the Mandela Day engagement.
Photography: Nompumelelo Mpungose
Silindile Buthelezi
