The Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently hosted a successful Philosophy of Education Committee workshop, to develop a plan for implementing its philosophy of education. The event aimed to integrate the principles of the philosophy into various disciplines through articulated activities across a five-year plan. Faculties shared their progress, methodologies, and future plans for implementing the philosophy.
The workshop featured interactive activities, group discussions, and presentations. It provided a platform for collaboration and critical thinking among faculty representatives and guest speakers. Nivar Somaru, Philosophy of Education Committee Coordinator stated that “by implementing the philosophy of education, DUT aims to contribute to creativity and innovation that shapes adaptive graduates who will transform society”.
The workshop focused on the operationalisation of the 11 PhiEd strategies that will be implemented in their various contextualised iterations:
- Active and Experiential Learning
- Integration of Multidisciplinary Perspectives
- Cultivating Decolonial Communities of Practice
- Curriculum Decolonisation, Transformation and Innovation
- Entrepreneurial Mindset and Innovation for Societal Transformation
- Transformative Engagement and Research
- Industry, Community, Government, and Professional Partnerships
- Professional Learning for Academics
- Student Holistic Development
- Continuous Improvement, Student Voice, and Shared Responsibility
- Structure and Policy Review
Philosophy of Education Committee Chairperson, Professor Tukayi Kudanga delivered his opening remarks, saying the intention is to turn Philosophy of Education from being a vision statement into a reality.
“This committee has been entrusted with a significant task of turning the Philosophy of Education from being a vision statement into a reality and I know that they have been ongoing efforts in different faculties as well as from CELT, So the aim here is to consolidate those efforts and ideas and create a final product as the committee,” said Prof. Kudanga.
Key discussion points included developing and implementing a university internal COIL Style platform-“Multiple collaborative Learning Platform” that enables multidisciplinary student and staff collaboration using Design Thinking. By doing so, the institution will be in a better position to create a digital platform within the university where students and lecturers from different faculties collaborate on shared projects addressing real world problems.
Representatives from various faculties stepped forward to share updates on their current, planned, and proposed projects aimed at bringing the Philosophy of Education to life. They highlighted their ongoing efforts, upcoming plans, and innovative ideas to operationalise the PhiEd, showcasing their commitment to enhancing education and student outcomes.
The workshop emphasised the importance of developing adaptive graduates who can thrive in a rapidly changing world, aligning with DUT’s ENVISION2030 strategy. Attendees highlighted the significance of transforming students’ lives and preparing them for the future. It underscored the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaboration in shaping the university’s educational approach.
Pictured: Attendees at the workshop.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Thubelihle Dumakude
