The International Education and Partnerships Directorate (IEP) hosted a vibrant and heartfelt International Students Farewell Lunch on the 13th of November 2025 at the Durban University of Technology’s Ritson Campus. The event brought together international student specifically recent graduates, outgoing and incoming ISO Executives, and staff from the International Office to honour the achievements, contributions, and journeys of DUT’s global community.
The farewell lunch served as a meaningful platform to acknowledge the academic and personal accomplishments of DUT’s international students, to celebrate their contributions to the university community, and to provide them with the opportunity to reflect on their journeys. It also aimed to strengthen bonds between students, staff, and the International Students Organisation (ISO), while reinforcing DUT’s commitment to producing graduates who are ready to positively influence the world.
The programme opened with a warm and inspiring welcome from Dr Lavern Samuels, Director of the International Education and Partnerships (IEP) Department. Dr Samuels expressed deep appreciation for the graduates’ resilience, dedication, and active participation within the DUT community. He acknowledged the unique challenges faced by international students and congratulated them on reaching this important milestone. In his message, he wished each graduate well in their future endeavours, encouraging them to continue carrying the DUT values with pride as they venture into the next chapter of their lives.
The graduates were then invited to share personal reflections on their experiences at DUT, followed by the official International Students Farewell Speech delivered by Dr Samuels, which reinforced the university’s commitment to supporting global citizenship and fostering intercultural engagement.
To further enrich the atmosphere, the event featured lively entertainment by Mr Mhlungu and the Drama Students, whose performances created a warm, celebratory environment. Another musical performance by Mr Kieron Dzwairo added to the joyful spirit of the day, showcasing DUT’s diverse artistic talent.
The Awards Ceremony, led by International Student Relations Officer, Ms Philile Mbamali, recognised the contributions and dedication of ISO members. The session included reflections on the achievements of the outgoing ISO team as well as the announcement and introduction of the new ISO members.
During her address, Ms Mbamali expressed her sincere appreciation to everyone who attended. She acknowledged the hard work, passion, and teamwork demonstrated throughout the year and encouraged both outgoing and incoming ISO members to continue striving for excellence. She extended her warm wishes to all the graduates, hoping they would go on to achieve great things and continue representing DUT proudly across the globe.
Dr Cyril Ejidike, former ISO President, who recently graduated with for his PhD in Construction Management, delivered thoughtful remarks, congratulating graduates and emphasising the importance of continued engagement and support within the international student community. He also shared some of the challenges and memorable moments he experienced throughout his journey at DUT, reflecting on how these experiences shaped his personal and professional growth. Dr Ejidike offered words of wisdom and encouragement to the incoming ISO students, highlighting the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance in achieving one’s goals. He expressed his gratitude for the lessons he has learned during his time at DUT and noted that he will deeply miss working with the DUT community.
Mr Benjamin Simon, a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Health Sciences and the newly elected ISO President, expressed his sincere appreciation to the outgoing executive members for their dedication and commendable service in leading the organisation. He also extended his gratitude to the International Office for its consistent support to international students and for always providing assistance when needed. Looking ahead, he shared his enthusiasm for collaborating with the International Office and the broader DUT community in his new role. Simon highlighted his vision to make the International Students Organisation more empowering and inclusive by prioritising academic development workshops, immigration support initiatives, and programmes aimed at strengthening the organisation. He hopes that these efforts will contribute positively to the DUT community, particularly through improved academic performance, enhanced communication, and increased research output, made possible by sharing his knowledge and experience.
The formal programme concluded with a vote of thanks, followed by a luncheon where attendees had the opportunity to network, connect, and celebrate together in a relaxed and joyous environment.
The International Students Farewell Lunch was a successful and memorable event that truly captured the spirit of celebration, community, and global unity that the DUT International Office strives to promote. It reflected the university’s ENVISION2030 goals and reaffirmed its dedication to cultivating globally competent, socially conscious graduates who will continue to make meaningful contributions locally and internationally.
Pictured: Dr Lavern Samuels, along with the international students at the farewell lunch.
Amanda Jali
