The Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Student Counselling and Health Unit recently hosted a recognition event to honour donors and supporters who contribute to the university’s student well-being initiatives, particularly the Phakimpilo food security programme. Held at Fred Crookes on the Steve Biko Campus, the event celebrated the partnership between the institution and its committed supporters.
Mrs Sooriagandhi Wardthen, Acting Director of Student Counselling and Health, welcomed esteemed guests, donors, and supporters, expressing her gratitude for their dedication and belief in every DUT student’s potential. She also emphasised that access to nutritious food is crucial for academic success, health, and overall well-being. Mrs Wardthen explained that Phakimpilo provides interim support to DUT students in the form of food parcels or vouchers.
“By supporting this initiative, donors have enabled the university to expand its efforts, helping more students to succeed. The vision for a future where no student goes hungry and every individual has opportunities to thrive was reiterated, the importance of collective efforts in achieving this goal,” she explained.
The Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations, Zwakele Ngubane, highlighted the national and global challenge of food insecurity among students, emphasising the importance of dignity and the role of Student Counselling and Health Services.
He further praised the efforts of the Advancement and Alumni Relations unit in fundraising for bursaries and food access, including other initiatives and food drives. Ngubane acknowledged the ongoing struggle and expressed his gratitude for contributions, aiming for a future where all students can access food as a basic human right.
Ms Phumzile Monageng, a Careers Resource Officer shared the overview of the Phakimpilo programme, stating that phakimpilo has been instrumental in supporting students facing food insecurity. She indicated that in 2024, 784 applications were submitted, with most applicants being undergraduate students (79%), while postgraduates accounted for 20%. She further explained that applications came mainly from the Durban campuses (97%), with only 3% from Midlands.
“The programme allocated 341 vouchers in 2023, 330 in 2024, and 493 in 2025, with funding contributions from both the SRC and the Phakimpilo account. Additionally, food pantry packs were distributed through alumni donations. In terms of gender, 56% of beneficiaries were males and 42% females. Students came from diverse faculties, with the largest share from Management Sciences (32%) and Accounting and Informatics (29%),” she highlighted.
Menzi Ngubane, a student that benefited from phakimpilo shared his journey. He stated that it has helped him during tough times in his life. He further mentioned that he had started a business that will give back to the DUT community. Ngubane also praised DUT donors and supporters for continuing in supporting this programme with funds.
The event also featured certificate handovers to supporters and donors of Phakimpilo of which the recipients were DUT registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, Executive Dean of Faculty of Management Sciences, Professor Fulufhelo Netswera, Ms Ronelle Lyson, Golden Key DUT chapter, Student Representative Council (SRC), the Director of Advancement and Alumni, Zwakele Ngubane, and others.
Mr Sihle Mbanjwa expressed his heartfelt gratitude to donors for their contributions, which have significantly impacted the programme. He then explained the term “phakimpilo,” which means to serve life, and a total of 34 individuals and groups were honoured for their contributions.
“The aim is to address food insecurity, aligning with university developmental goals,” said Dr Clement Moreku, Dean of Students. He further said: This programme cannot die and what we are starting to see now is how this initiative is growing and how the DUT community is also getting more involved. Each person is playing their part in making sure that the food insecurity gap within our institution is reached. Non-perishable food items can go a long way as well in assisting our students.”
Pictured:Mrs Sooriagandhi Wardthen, Acting Director of Student Counselling and Health and the Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations, Zwakele Ngubane at the event.
Photography: Multimedia
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
