The Human Resources Management (HRM) Department recently hosted a Fun Day at the Munies Hockey Club, providing a welcome break from the academic stress. This initiative was aimed to foster meaningful interactions and relationships among students, encourage teamwork and collaboration, and strengthen student-lecturer bonds.
The Department of Human Resources Management at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) organised its first-ever fun day for first-year students, which was made possible through the generous sponsorship of esteemed external partners-Nedbank, eThekwini Municipality, Vodacom, Spar, BB, Redbull, Oxford, and aQuelle. Internal sponsors included DUT Student Housing, Gender Forum, Advisory Board members, and DUT innobiz. This exciting event brought students and lecturers together, engaging in thrilling games and sports like volleyball, tug of war, sack races, egg and spoon races, and a blindfolded treasure hunt.
Dr Wiza Munyeka, Head of Department for Human Resources Management (HRM), welcomed sponsors and students to the event, expressing his gratitude for their presence. He highlighted the exciting themes-Hawaiian, Cowgirl/Cowboy, and High School-which added to the festive atmosphere. Dr Munyeka encouraged students to unwind and have fun, stressing the importance of balancing academic responsibilities with social experiences.
The Administration assistant from HRM, Nqobile Sibisi, expressed her delighted stating that her goal for the event was achieved. “The planning team’s hard work and dedication paid off. It was wonderful to see our students come together and have fun. More than anything else I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all the sponsors and stakeholders who supported our event,” said Sibisi.
Mercillene Mathews, a lecturer in the Human Resources Management Department, shed light on the academic structure for first-year students. “Currently, our students are enrolled in general education (Gen-Ed) modules, which will be followed by core modules in their second year. Typically, first-year students do not have the opportunity to bond with the department, but this event changes that,” she explained.
Mathews highlighted the importance of the fun day event in fostering relationships between students and the department. “By interacting with lecturers in a relaxed setting, students can develop meaningful connections,” she stated.
The exciting games and sports activities at the HRM fun day were facilitated by Hloniphile Gcabashe from the Department of Sport. Four teams competed: Fallen Angels (staff), Redbull, Tigers, and Warriors.
Fallen Angels and Tigers emerged as the dominant forces, excelling in most games. However, all teams participated enthusiastically, showcasing remarkable teamwork and camaraderie. Students and lecturers worked together seamlessly, forging stronger relationships that extended beyond the academic sphere.
Dr Ashnee Rajlal, senior lecturer in the Human Resources department, showed appreciation to the class representatives from first to second year by presenting them with gifts. The recipients were Aphiwe Gumede, Migyle Rajiah, Bongeka Mkhize, Zothando Khulu, Lwazi Mtshali, and Amahle Ngcobo.
Andile Gumede, class representative for the first-year HRM class, reflected on her unforgettable experience at the department’s fun day. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to attend this event. Not only did I learn valuable lessons, but I also got to build relationships with lecturers, which was truly amazing,” she said. Gumede extended her appreciation to the organisers for conceptualising an event that bridged the gap between students and the faculty.
In his closing address, Dr Munyeka thanked the attendees, sponsors, and organisers for their contributions. He pledged to continue hosting the event annually, recognising its value in promoting student well-being and community building.
Pictured: Human Resource Management Students experience their first Fun day for the first time at Munies Hockey Club.
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
