The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Interior Design Programme recently partnered with Belgotex, a leading South African manufacturer of high quality carpet and vinyl flooring, on an inter level community engagement project that challenged students to develop innovative product designs while addressing community needs. The initiative, themed Made in Pietermaritzburg, provided students with a valuable opportunity to apply their creativity to a real industry brief while exploring local manufacturing, social impact and sustainable design.
Facilitated by Interior Design lecturers Ms Hlengiwe Khubisa and Ms Sonali Chetty, the project brought together Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP) and second year Interior Design students in mixed groups to encourage collaboration, peer learning and the exchange of ideas. Incorporated into their respective curricula, the project enabled students to strengthen their research, design development and presentation skills while working on a live industry challenge.
Students were tasked with designing products for the Belgotex Criss Cross range. Criss Cross forms part of the Belgotex Go Group, a community driven initiative that empowers local artisans and designers through skills development, training and mentorship.
As part of the project, students visited the Belgotex showroom in April, where they gained insight into the company’s products, manufacturing processes and community initiatives. They also met one of the artisans involved in the Belgotex Go Group, providing them with a deeper understanding of how design, craftsmanship and local production can work together to create meaningful social impact.
The project also featured a guest lecture by DUT alumnus Siyanda Mbele, founder of Pinda, a furniture and interior design studio. Drawing on his industry experience, Mbele encouraged students to think conceptually and creatively as they developed their product designs, inspiring them to explore innovative approaches to problem solving.
Left to right are Priyen Chetty (DUT), Sne Sosibo (Belgotex), Sonali Chetty (DUT), Ranley Sewduth (Belgotex) and Hlengiwe Khubisa (DUT). Image supplied
The project concluded with final presentations at DUT’s City Campus, where Belgotex representatives Sne Sosibo and Ranley Sewduth evaluated the students’ work and shared valuable industry feedback. Sosibo, a DUT Interior Design alumna, also demonstrated how a design qualification can open opportunities to contribute meaningfully to both industry and community development.
Chetty said Belgotex will select a winning group whose design best responds to the project brief.
“The winning students will receive prizes and may have the opportunity to have their product manufactured and sold. They will also be credited for their designs, recognising their contribution to a meaningful collaboration between higher education, industry and community development,” she said.
Reflecting on the initiative, Chetty said the project gave students a unique opportunity to bridge theory and practice.
“This project offered students a valuable opportunity to engage with real world design challenges while contributing to broader conversations about local manufacturing, social impact and the role of interior design beyond the classroom,” she concluded.
Pictured: Interior Design students present their final projects during the Belgotex community engagement project at DUT’s City Campus earlier this year. Image supplied.
Sonali Chetty
