Five Business and Information Management (BIM) students were recently selected to be employed as student liaison officers at the prestigious, third G20 Education Working Group Conference taking place at the Capital Zimbali Conference Venue from 2 July 2025 to 3 July 2025.

Third-year Business and Information Management, student, Ms Thato Mathe-(student team leader), second-year extended curriculum programme (ECP) Business and Information Management student, Ms Nandi Zulu-(Deputy student team leader), third-year extended curriculum programme (ECP) Business and Information Management student, Mr Doliva Mfuamba-(Deputy student team leader), third-year Business and Information Management student, Mr Lungelo Ngema and second-year extended curriculum programme (ECP) Business and Information Management student, Mr Ludumo Mxolana.

Mrs Egashnee Moodley-Bhulaye, a DUT academic from the Department of Information and Corporate Management shared more on the selection process, which forms part of the student mentorship programme which aims to help bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application, aligned with DUT ENVISION2030 ‘Adaptive Graduates’ goal.  “The mentor-mentee relationship can significantly enhance a student’s educational experience, experience real world work environment, build’s student’s confidence, provide guidance, networking and foster skills for student’s future employment,” she said.

For Doliva Mfuamba being selected to work at the G20 Summit is an incredible honour. “It’s a rare opportunity to witness global diplomacy and leadership first-hand, and I’m proud to be part of an event that holds such significance on the world stage. It’s both humbling and empowering to represent DUT and South African youth in such a prestigious setting,” she replied.

 Lungelo Ngema confirmed that such an opportunity shows the high academic standards and leadership skills that Durban University of Technology (DUT) encourages in its students. “As a DUT student representative, I am eager to interact with global leaders, policy makers, and other experts. I look forward to learning about important global issues and taking part in meaningful conversations. This experience will surely enhance my academic path and influence my future goals,” he said.

Thato Mathe said that as a student, she is thrilled to be part of a platform that brings together global leaders, experts, and peers to discuss and shape the future of education as DUT advocates for student success. Participating in events like the G20 Educational Working Group Meeting is vital for us because it provides a platform to engage with global issues, share our ideas if given the chance to, and learn from others,” she shared.

 Ludumo Mxolana explained that DUT played a crucial in getting the students ready to be part of such an event. “The university has shaped us into self-assured, competent young people prepared to enter large venues like the G20 Summit by emphasizing leadership, creativity, and discipline,” he relayed.

Nandi Zulu said that it was vital for students to be part of such an event as the G20 Summit provides students with a platform to engage with global leaders, network with peers from diverse backgrounds, and to develop essential skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving. “It allows us to contribute to shaping the future of our communities and the world at large,” she said. Zulu shared that the university’s emphasis on innovation, creativity, and community engagement has helped her to become a well-rounded individual, equipped to take on challenges and make a positive impact in society. “I’m grateful for the support and guidance I’ve received from my lecturers, especially Mrs Moodley-Bhulaye, and peers, which has prepared me for roles like this,” she added.

Mrs Moodley-Bhulaye further emphasised that the participation of DUT students in South Africa’s G20 Education workshop complements the objectives set out in the ENVISION2030 framework by promoting high-quality education, enhancing global engagement, fostering research and innovation, advocating for sustainability, and developing leadership skills. This integrated approach supports the broader goal of transforming higher education to better serve students and society at large.

Pictured: Five DUT Business and Information Management (BIM) students selected as student liaison officers at the third G20 Education Working Group Conference.

Waheeda Peters