The Communications Unit, under the Division of Corporate Affairs, ensures clear and strategic communication within and beyond the university community, aligned with ENVISION2030 and Living Values. The unit strives to build understanding, persuade stakeholders, inform audiences, influence attitudes, and drive meaningful action. Our approach is structured around internal and external engagement in support of ENVISION2030 and the university’s Living Values.

Internal Communication

A DUT employee or student who is informed about their institution is automatically an ambassador and marketer for DUT. This is achieved by facilitating open communication between management, students, and employees to ensure that everyone feels part of the university, is well informed, understands the university’s direction, and is aware of both their own future and that of the institution. This ensures that messages remain consistent with DUT’s mission, strategic priorities, and Living Values.

The unit communicates internally through platforms and publications such as DUT4Life (Student Email Accounts / Portal), DUT PinBoard (Staff Email System), ConDUiT, The Edge, RIE Newsletter, DUT Excellence, the Annual Report, and the university website. The unit works closely with Executive Management to plan news releases and ensures that all internal communication reflects institutional priorities.

External Communication

External communication ensures that stakeholders such as media, alumni, partners, and the wider community are informed about DUT’s activities, achievements, and contributions to teaching, learning, research, and societal development. The Communications Unit delivers this through publications, media releases, digital platforms, and social media to inform and influence target audiences, secure goodwill, maintain relevance, and build strong media relations.

Services Provided

The Communications Unit:

• Monitors DUT media coverage.
• Responds to media queries.
• Develops and distributes media releases.
• Coordinates internal and external communication initiatives.
• Uploads website stories and creates social media content.

Media Coverage

Faculties, Departments, Units, staff, and students with notable achievements or events are encouraged to contact the Media Office in the Communications Unit to prepare and issue media releases. Stories considered for coverage include academic achievements, research breakthroughs, community engagement, innovative projects, staff appointments, DUT game changers, adaptive graduate stories, and student success stories.

Submissions are assessed for newsworthiness and alignment with DUT’s strategic priorities and Living Values. Relevant information and contact details should be included to facilitate media interviews. Providing high-quality images or videos, as well as including quotes from staff or students, enhances the quality and impact of coverage.

Content should ideally be submitted at least one week before the intended publication date. The Media Office is the designated office authorised to liaise with journalists and coordinate media enquiries, interviews, and coverage. Faculty and departmental media representatives are required to liaise consistently with the Media Office to ensure all external communications are accurate, approved, and aligned with DUT’s strategic priorities.

Once approved, stories are shared across print and online media, the DUT website, and official social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X (Twitter), TikTok, and YouTube. The Media Office will notify submitters once their stories are published or broadcast, and staff and students are encouraged to share coverage through their personal and professional networks.

College Lecture Programme

The College Lecture Programme provides a platform for staff and students to engage with experts from inside and outside the university on issues affecting the community.

Objectives include:

• Developing critical thought, debate, and creativity
• Broadening horizons and understanding
• Countering negativity and prejudice
• Encouraging participation in diverse forums guided by DUT’s Living Values

Staff and students may propose topics and guest speakers by contacting the Communications Manager. The programme is advertised internally, within the community, and via social media, with media invited to attend selected events.

In Dialogue

In Dialogue allows internal stakeholders to discuss topics of importance at DUT. The Vice-Chancellor engages on key issues, including the five pillars of Universities of Technology and ENVISION2030. This forum fosters unity, community spirit, and meaningful engagement, with summaries and updates shared through internal and external digital channels.

Publications Office

The Publications Office, part of the Communications Unit, ensures that DUT produces high-quality materials that promote staff and student achievements and position the university globally.

Roles:

• Communicate to internal and external audiences
• Market the university and showcase good practice
• Ensure all publications align with DUT’s strategic priorities

Types of Publications:

• Internal newspapers and newsletters
• Annual Reports
• Brochures and magazines for alumni, students, donors, and partners
• Departmental brochures and recruitment materials

Submission Guidelines:

• Publications must meet deadlines and be correctly dated
• Departments, staff, and students must submit requests one month prior to printing deadlines
• Guidelines and deadlines are provided by the Publications Officer

 

Contact Details:

Location: 1st Floor, Botanic Mansions
Steve Biko Campus

 

Publications Officer: Waheeda Peters Tel: 031 373 2113 Fax: 031 373 2898 Email:  Waheedap@dut.ac.za Location: Open House, 4th Floor Campus: Steve Biko Campus

 

Media Officer: Simangele Zuma Tel: 031 373 289 Fax: 031 373 2898 Email:  simangelez1@dut.ac.za Location: Open House, 4th Floor Campus: Steve Biko Campus

 

Administrative Assistant : Nkululeko Mbatha Tel: 031 373 2109 Fax: 031 373 2898 Email: nkululekom4@dut.ac.za Location: Open House, 4th Floor Campus: Steve Biko Campus

 

Communications Manager: Tiyani Mboweni Tel: 031 373 2845 Fax: 031 373 2898 Email: mbowenit@dut.ac.za Location: Open House, 4th Floor Campus: Steve Biko Campus