Introducing Thalente Mteshane, the Student Representative Council (SRC) newly elected Finance Officer for 2025–2027, a student leader whose approach is defined by integrity, transparency, and proactive leadership. His journey demonstrates what it means to serve with dedication while creating meaningful opportunities for others.
Currently in his third year of a Bachelor of Information and Communications Technology, Mteshane chose this qualification because of his passion for technology and its potential to drive innovation and solve real-world problems. He is also deeply committed to promoting academic excellence and fostering holistic student development.
Originally from Harding, KwaZulu-Natal, and now living in Durban, he describes himself in three words: dedicated, principled, and visionary. These qualities guide every aspect of his leadership.
Mteshane believes the 2025 SRC, composed of energetic young minds and intellectuals, has a clear mission: to enhance academic success and produce not just graduates, but adaptive, future-ready leaders. He plans to strengthen the connection between curricular, co-curricular, and extra-curricular activities to ensure students grow both academically and personally.
As Finance Officer, Mteshane is committed to transparent management of SRC funds, streamlining student funding initiatives, and developing financial programmes that support student engagement and development, making resources accessible to all students.
“Leadership is about service, accountability, and creating opportunities for others to thrive. Every decision we make should empower students to reach their full potential,” he explained.
In his current role, Mteshane is working hand in hand with the Financial Aid and Finance teams to ensure that student funds are processed on time and that all deserving students receive their allowances.
“The Financial Aid team is coding all students for registration, DUT-leased residences, Travel Allowance, and NSFAS-accredited private accommodation. While working on this process, the team has also begun releasing allowances resulting in a significant number of students receiving their funds on 10 February 2026,” he added.
He further mentioned that for students who have not yet received their allowances, emails will be sent advising them on how to update their banking details or resolve any issues, ensuring that all pending matters are addressed. The SRC is actively engaging to determine suitable payment dates for allowances, and these will be communicated to the student body once finalised.
“My vision is for a smooth academic year with no funding issues and for students to better understand DUT’s philosophy of education. By involving multiple stakeholders in SRC Bridge Relief processes, we can ensure transparency and that all students feel included and supported,” Mteshane expressed.
When he was asked about the DUT Living values he deeply resonates with, Mteshane shared that his leadership is guided by strong principles. “I live up to transparency and integrity in everything I do,” he said.
He explained that being elected by DUT students comes with a responsibility to act honestly and openly at all times. For him, these values are not just ideals but practical commitments that shape every decision he makes as a student leader. By upholding transparency and integrity, he aims to build trust with students and ensure that SRC initiatives and funding programmes benefit everyone fairly.
Picture: DUT’s newly elected SRC Finance Officer, Thalente Mteshane.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Tiyani Mboweni
