The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Journalism Programme celebrated the academic achievements of its students at the annual Journalism Students’ Achievement Awards, held at the DUT Hotel School at Ritson Campus on Wednesday, 26 August 2026.
Students from first year through to Bachelor of Journalism (Honours) level were recognised for their outstanding academic performance during the ceremony, which also provided an opportunity to reflect on the changing media landscape and the future of journalism.
The programme opened with a screening of student documentaries and videos, showcasing the journalism, storytelling and videography skills developed by students throughout their studies.
As South Africa marks 50 years since the introduction of television, the event also featured a panel discussion titled “50 Years of Television and the Future of News and Content”.
The panel brought together DUT Journalism alumnus Pinky Radebe, Head of Communications and Public Relations at the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority; Deputy Chairperson of the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF), Slindile Khanyile; DUT Media, Language and Communication alumnus and eThekwini Municipality Communications Manager Mdu Ncalane; and recent DUT graduate and financial journalist Enzokuhle Sabela.
The panellists reflected on the changing media environment and the continued importance of journalism at a time when audiences are increasingly exposed to disinformation on social media and content generated through artificial intelligence (AI).
They emphasised that while technology and media platforms continue to evolve, the fundamental principles of journalism remain important.
“If your job is to be known, go be an actor. It’s about the story. It’s about the facts,” Sabela told the student journalists.
Following the panel discussion, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Design, Professor Pholoho Morojele, delivered the opening remarks and encouraged students to remain focused on their individual journeys.
“Not winning an award today doesn’t define who you are, your life and the rest of your career,” said Prof Morojele.
The awards ceremony then recognised the academic achievements of students from the second semester of 2025 and the first semester of 2026.
Among the recipients was Sompisi Ntuli, who received an award for Television Journalism 3B. Ntuli, who is currently completing his Bachelor of Journalism (Honours) at DUT, said the recognition came as a surprise but reflected the effort he had put into the module.
“Television was one of my favourite modules due to the practical nature of it,” said Ntuli.
Janelle Govender was recognised as the top achiever in the Journalism Programme for 2025. While pursuing her Bachelor of Journalism (Honours), Govender also received awards for Media and Society and Multimedia and Journalism for 2026.
She described the recognition as a proud moment and acknowledged the support she received throughout her academic journey.
“I feel so grateful to be receiving this award because I was recognised for the work I put in,” said Govender.
Students who made significant contributions to Credible Source by DUT Journalism, the department’s online publication, were also recognised with certificates for their contribution, hard work and dedication to producing journalism content.
The event highlighted the importance of recognising academic achievement while encouraging students to continue developing their skills and pursuing opportunities in journalism.
Journalism lecturers Professor Theodora Adjin-Tettey and Dr Tarryn Frankish also encouraged students to consider postgraduate study and apply for the Honours and Master of Journalism programmes at DUT.
Pictured: Some of the Journalism students who were honoured for academic excellence.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Luyanda Mlaba
