The Durban University of Technology hosted a Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s Engagement with Student Leaders on Tuesday, 14 April 2026 at the Beverly Hills Hotel in uMhlanga, bringing together members of the Student Representative Council for a strategic leadership engagement.
The event provided a platform to inspire and empower SRC members with the skills and insights needed to lead with integrity, ethics, and purpose within the university and in their broader communities.
The session was facilitated by Mr Masiza Ngculu, Manager of the Student Governance and Development Unit, who emphasised the significance of the engagement in shaping effective future leaders. He encouraged student leaders to carefully consider the guidance shared by the Vice-Chancellor, noting that it offers key principles and knowledge required for impactful leadership.
The Dean of Students, Dr Clement Moreku, welcomed attendees to the engagement, describing it as an important and now regular platform where the Vice-Chancellor engages directly with student leaders to share his leadership approach and strategic direction for the institution. He highlighted that such engagements strengthen understanding between management and student leaders while promoting open dialogue on governance, leadership, and institutional development.
Dr Moreku also acknowledged the presence of the Institutional Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, commending his long-standing contribution to governance, compliance, and student affairs in higher education. He further expressed appreciation for the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thandwa Mthembu, describing him as a strategic thinker and experienced leader whose decades of service have shaped institutional leadership and mentorship of emerging leaders.
“I encourage students to reflect on the lessons of ethical leadership, integrity, and adaptability, stressing the importance of these values as they prepare to enter professional spaces and contribute to the broader development of society,” said Dr Moreku.
The SRC Secretary General, Mr Samkelo Ngubo, outlined the programmes initiated this year, highlighting a renewed focus on student development, institutional values, and innovation. He explained that the SRC adopted a consultative approach by engaging a wide range of institutional stakeholders to identify key student challenges and ensure that the programmes developed are responsive, inclusive, and grounded in the needs of the DUT community.
“These programmes were designed not only to enhance student engagement but also to align closely with DUT’s vision of producing socially conscious and forward-thinking graduates,” Ngubo said.
He added that the newly structured DUT Festival reflects a strategic shift towards integrating the Living Values Project into key student activities. This approach, he noted, helps first-year students connect meaningfully with the university’s culture while encouraging participation in initiatives that build leadership skills, promote critical thinking, and foster positive community impact.
The Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thandwa Mthembu, commended the SRC for presenting a forward-thinking and inclusive programme of action aligned with the university’s long-term vision. He noted that the SRC’s approach marks a shift from past practices, as it is grounded in meaningful consultation with diverse student stakeholders.
“Remarkable progress is being seen in student leadership, with current student leaders demonstrating maturity, strategic thinking, and a strong commitment to addressing real student needs. Such leadership inspires hope for the future of both the university and the country,” said Prof Mthembu.
He further highlighted DUT’s evolving philosophy of education, which moves beyond preparing students solely for employment to developing innovative, creative, and adaptive graduates who can transform society and create their own opportunities.
He encouraged student leaders to see themselves as future innovators and problem solvers capable of addressing societal challenges through creativity and high level skills. In this way, education at DUT is positioned not only as a pathway to employment, but also as a platform for leadership, entrepreneurship, and social transformation.
The SRC President, Mr Sihle Nkosi, reflected on a message shared during the 2026 orientation, noting that while it takes ability to reach the top, remaining there requires strong character. He emphasised the importance of values and integrity, stating that good character enables leaders to withstand challenges and remain grounded.
He also acknowledged that student leadership often emerges through political alignments, but stressed that success should be rooted in strong values and ethical conduct that foster positive and sustainable environments.
In his closing remarks, the Institutional Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, commended the tone set during the Secretary General’s presentation and reflected on his experience working with student leadership structures since 1998. He noted that this level of engagement stands out among the many groups he has worked with over the years.
He emphasised that strong character is what distinguishes and sustains effective leaders and assured the SRC of the institution’s continued support in achieving its goals.
Pictured: The SRC Representative alongside the Dean of Students, Dr. Clement Moreku, and the Institutional Registrar, Dr. Maditsane Nkonoane (centre).
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
