The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Department of Maritime Studies, within the Faculty of Applied Sciences, officially welcomed its newest cohort of first-year students during a two-day orientation programme held on 20 and 21 July 2026 at the Steve Biko Campus.
The orientation marked the beginning of the academic journey for students enrolled in the Diploma in Nautical Studies (Sea Going) and the Diploma in Shipping and Logistics (Shore Based). Designed to support students’ transition into university life, the programme introduced them to the academic environment, student support services and career opportunities within South Africa’s maritime sector and the growing Blue Economy.
Built around the philosophy that no ship sails without a crew, the orientation highlighted the importance of teamwork, professionalism, discipline and resilience, qualities that are essential for success at university and within the maritime industry.
Executive Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Professor Suren Singh, officially welcomed the incoming students and encouraged them to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
Addressing the cohort, Professor Singh emphasised that success in higher education requires commitment, perseverance and a willingness to learn. He encouraged students to strive for academic excellence while developing the professional values and practical skills needed to succeed in an increasingly dynamic global maritime industry.
Head of Department, Dr N.M. Manqele, welcomed the students and highlighted the importance of the orientation programme in preparing them for university life.
“These engagements are important opportunities to welcome students, introduce them to the department and help them understand the environment they are joining,” she said.
Dr Manqele encouraged students to make full use of the University’s academic and student support services and remain focused on achieving their personal and professional goals.
Throughout the two-day programme, students attended presentations by academic and professional support staff, who introduced the wide range of services available to support their success throughout their studies.
Sessions covered faculty procedures, academic regulations, quality assurance processes, library services, financial aid and student funding, as well as Work Integrated Learning, where students received guidance on practical training requirements, industry expectations and career opportunities within both the sea going and shore based maritime sectors.
The programme also provided an overview of the department’s curriculum, graduate attributes, assessment requirements and digital learning platforms, ensuring that students begin the semester with a clear understanding of their academic journey.
Beyond the formal presentations, the orientation encouraged students to build relationships with one another and engage with departmental staff. An interactive maritime and institutional knowledge quiz promoted teamwork, participation and friendly competition, with top performing students receiving prizes.
The orientation not only equipped students with practical information but also fostered a sense of belonging by introducing them to the people, resources and support systems that will accompany them throughout their studies.
Through initiatives such as this, the Department of Maritime Studies continues to demonstrate its commitment to developing graduates who are academically prepared, professionally competent and ready to contribute to South Africa’s maritime sector and the advancement of the Blue Economy.
As these first-year students embark on their academic journey, the Faculty of Applied Sciences remains committed to nurturing future maritime professionals who will lead with integrity, innovation and excellence in an increasingly interconnected global industry.
Pictured: First-year Maritime Studies students joined Executive Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Professor Suren Singh and Head of Department Dr N.M. Manqele during the Semester 2 orientation programme, marking the beginning of their academic journey in the maritime sector.
Photographer: Nompumelelo Mpungose
Silindile Buthelezi
