The Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently made history by hosting its first-ever joint Professional Oath Ceremony at the Coastlands Hotel Musgrave.
The event marked a powerful moment of unity, integrity, and commitment as all departments within the FHS came together to celebrate the transition of their students from academia into professional practice.
The ceremony symbolised more than a milestone, it represented the spirit of collaboration and ethical responsibility that defined the health sciences. Designed to provide an ethical framework and moral guide for professional conduct, the oath served as a public declaration of each graduate’s solemn commitment to uphold the welfare of patients and the community.
Adding a vibrant moment to the celebration, the faculty also honoured students who exemplified the DUT Living Values and Principles.
Dr Nonhlanhla Mbatha, Head of the Biomedical and Clinical Technology Department at DUT, delivered a heartfelt welcome as she emphasised that this historic joint Oath ceremony was a tangible reflection of unity and shared purpose across disciplines.
The FHS staff and students during the Oath Ceremony.
Represented at the ceremony were various departments within the faculty namely, Biomedical and Clinical Technology, Chiropractic, Community Health Studies, Emergency Medical Care and Rescue, Homoeopathy, Radiography, Somatology, Dental Sciences, Nursing, and Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics
“All along, we have been doing these ceremonies individually, but we are doing it together. It was a remarkable milestone that deserved recognition, as it strengthened unity within the faculty,” she described.
The Faculty of Health Sciences Executive Dean, Professor Gugu Mchunu, delivered an inspiring address that captured the essence of the occasion. She reminded students that taking the professional oath was not merely a formality but a sacred pledge to serve with compassion, integrity, and purpose.
“You are here to take an oath and bind yourself to fully commit to serving the community. Understand the deeper meaning of this oath, it is a statement of ethics and principles that are core to our profession. It is not about the uniform; it is about intention, passion, and integrity. Go out and represent DUT with pride,” she expressed.
The ceremony also featured an inspiring speech by Anele Ndlovu as guest speaker, an award-winning mental health advocate. Drawing from her personal journey, she spoke about the importance of mental wellness within the healthcare profession.
“The stigma around mental illness is still shocking and many people suffer in silence. As healthcare professionals, your mental health matters just as much as your patients. Prioritise it because healing begins within. When you are well, you give your best to those you serve,” she said.
Her heartfelt message inspired many in the audience, offering practical advice such as seeking support, speaking openly, and creating safe spaces to discuss mental well-being.
One of the most touching moments of the event was the Lighting of the Candles and Oath Commemoration, HODs led their respective departments in reciting the oath and signing their pledges.
Among those leading this significant segment were Dr L. O’Connor (Chiropractic), Dr B.T. Mkhize (Biomedical and Clinical Technology), Dr T.E. Khoza (Radiography), Dr N.P. Zikalala (Nursing), Professor A.H.A. Ross (Homoeopathy), Dr M. Kgware (Community Health Studies), Mr. S. Naguran (Emergency Medical Care and Rescue), Mr. X. Goxo (Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics), and Dr D. Varatharajullu (Chiropractic).
The FHS Executive Dean, Professor Mchunu, then led the unified oath, a powerful moment that symbolised the collective pledge of every student to uphold ethical and professional standards in their respective fields.
Beyond the oath, the ceremony also celebrated those who embodied DUT’s core values and principles, The awards recognised students who demonstrated the DUT Living Values in their academic journeys.
Among the winners was Monicca Conny Kwaso from Emergency Medical Care and Rescue, who received the Accountability Award. Reflecting on her achievement, she said: “Receiving this award was truly an honour and a reflection of a journey that began during the challenging days of COVID-19 in 2021. It reminded me that dedication and responsibility always pay off.”
Nompumelelo Mthiyane from Somatology, who won the Excellence Award, shared that her success came through perseverance and self-belief. “It has not been an easy journey, but motivation and dedication have carried me through,” she expressed.
From Radiography, Luke Krishnan and Raeesah Jhazbhay were honoured to be recognised for Professionalism, Commitment, Excellence, and Respect. They shared that it was proof that good values never go unnoticed.
Noko Mpebe, also from Emergency Medical Care, who received the Respect Award, noted that respect has always guided his path. “It is about acknowledging others’ contributions and embracing diversity,’’ he added.
In her closing remarks, Professor Pavitra Pillay, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organising committee, faculty staff, and students for ensuring the success of the event.
“We have had a challenging year as a faculty, so witnessing such a moment of togetherness and achievement was truly remarkable. Credit goes to everyone who worked tirelessly to make the ceremony possible,” she concluded.
The winners list:
Community Health Studies Department.
Thuli Ntuka, Compassion, Rorisang Sethema, Integrity and Smangaliso Madondo for Honesty and transparency.
Homoeopathy Department.
Mrs. Barka Mistrey received an Award for Professionalism and Excellence.
Chiropractic Department.
Juwairiyah Adam: Professionalism and Respect.
Nsizwa Khumalo: Accountability and Respect.
Caleb Hibbert: Excellence and Respect.
Emergency Medical Care and Rescue Department.
Sanele Mduduma: Honesty
Noko Christian Mpebe: Respect
Monicca Conny Kwaso: Accountability.
Radiography Department.
Luke Krishnan: Professionalism, Commitment, Excellence and Respect.
Bongani Njilo: Respect, commitment and accountability.
Raeesah Jhazbhay: Professionalism, Commitment, Respect.
Dental Sciences Department.
Tsholofelo Matldi: Commitment.
Kgaugelo Manaka: Excellence.
Thabiso Magasela: Accountability.
Junior Madondo: Professionalism.
Biomedical & Clinical Technology Department.
Khubone Lethokuhle Thandeka, Hlambisa Bandile Sihle, Joelle Jadine Ramiah, Sabelo Nhlanhla Radebe and Thulani Mpendulo Mkhize who all received Respect and Integrity award.
Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics Department.
Govender Kerusha: Commitment.
Mogale Thapel: Respect.
Mtshweni Kesi Lavitta: Professionalism.
Somatology Department.
Amahle Pretty Ndimande, Olwethu Ndlovu and Ayanda Thusini for Professionalism.
Preeya Rooplal and Nompumelelo Mthiyane for Excellence.
Nursing Department.
Rhea Jewan: Excellence and Innovation.
Lindokuhle Budu: Commitment & Professionalism and Excellence in Sports – Recognised as Rugby Backline Player of the Year in the UKZN Sports Club.
Sibongakonke Banele Mhlongo: Integrity, Professionalism and Accountability.
Thobeka Purity Dumakude: Commitment, compassion and Respects.
Pictured: Faculty of Health Sciences staff led by the Executive Dean, Professor Gugu Mchunu at the Oath Ceremony.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Vukani Langa
