The Student Governance and Development unit at Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently held a brief yet enlightening Student Representative Council (SRC) Engagement with the Office of the Vice-Chancellor at Garden Court Marine Parade in Durban.
This engagement featured deep and impactful discussions on leadership, growth, and transition of the SRC members. Its purpose was to acknowledge the contributions of the outgoing SRC while equipping them with guidance, advice, and wisdom for their future endeavors.
The session was facilitated by Ms Kholeka Mfeka, Administrative Officer: Clubs and Societies, who emphasised the significance of the event in shaping effective future leaders.
“It is very important to absorb all the guidance that has been shared by our executive because they are everything you need to succeed as leader,” she added.
Opening the session, Mr Masiza Ngculu, Manager: Student Governance and Development, encouraged SRC members to take full advantage of learning opportunities and to remain open to continuous growth.
A key highlight of the event was the empowering and thought-provoking presentation by Dr David Mohale, Director: Special Projects in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor, themed: The Rise and Fall of Leaders.
Dr Mohale explored common elements that lead to leadership failure, strategies for recovery and resilience.
He underlined the importance of purpose-driven leadership and warned against surrounding oneself with the wrong influences.
“Leaders often fall not because of their actions alone, but because of the people they keep around them. Lack of self-control is a major factor in the downfall of many,” he shared.
Additionally, he mentioned that the lack of self-control is the most downfall of many leaders.
“When you are a leader, it is very important to be mentally strong to be able to face any challenges. Sometimes as leaders, there are things we are not willing to hear from certain people and that can lead to downfall. Also, prioritising without neglecting the other is equally important including balancing career and family. However, to succeed you need emotional intelligence, and source of anticipation,” Dr Mohale said.
Dr Mohale not only shared his wisdom, but he also gifted each member of the SRC with the books as he further emphasised the importance of continues learning to enhance leadership qualities.
The SRC members were afforded the opportunity to reflect on their leadership journey, their achievements, challenges, and where they need to improve.
Institutional Registrar, Dr Nkonoane acknowledged the efforts and dedication of the SRC for their enormous work during their term in the office.
“I really commend the journey you have travelled. Today’s intervention is crucial on how you conduct yourself to the network you have establish to unlock opportunities. Being an SRC is not a career. You may have the fear of the unknown life, due to the life you are used to. However, I am hoping that at the end of your term you would have grown to take responsibility of your life that lies ahead,’’ he said.
Dean of Students, Dr Clement Moreku was also amongst leadership members who were present during the Student Representative Council Engagement with the Office of the Vice-Chancellor.
The delivering closing remarks, SRC Finance Officer, Sihle Nkosi, reflected on Dr Mohale’s powerful message, expressing gratitude for the continuous guidance from DUT leaders. He applauded his team’s efforts, especially for their success in setting a strong example academically.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Vukani Langa
