Page 39 - Demo

37 DUT Excellence 2025 | Semester 1The Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit (AARU) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) proudly launched their transformative new initiative, the DUT RISE (Readiness and Industry Skills Enhancement) Programme, in June 2025 at Mansfield Hall on the Ritson Campus.This flagship programme is designed to prepare DUT students for the world of work by equipping them with essential industry skills, fostering alumni connections and facilitating mentorship and networking opportunities. It is a proactive step towards alleviating graduate unemployment and enhancing DUT student employability.%u201cThe DUT RISE Programme is a game-changer for DUT graduates. We are incredibly proud to be launching this initiative, which will not only ease the transition from university to the professional world, but also strengthen the lifelong bond between our students and the Institution,%u201d said Mr Zwakele Ngubane, Director of AARU.The pre-alumni programme is tailored specifically for students in their final year or those within a year of graduating. It aims to instil career readiness while fostering a sense of connection to the DUT alumni community even before students complete their studies.%u201cWe see DUT RISE as more than just a programme; it%u2019s a movement to empower, support and uplift our students as they embark on their post-graduation journeys. It%u2019s about building a vibrant and engaged pre-alumni community that grows into a strong, supportive alumni network,%u201d said Ms Ronelle Lyson, Alumni Relations Coordinator.Programme Objectives%u2022 Career development: Equip students with the tools, guidance and resources needed to transition confidently into the workforce%u2022 Networking: Create opportunities for meaningful interaction with alumni and industry professionals%u2022 Lifelong engagement: Encourage early alumni involvement through mentorship, philanthropy and volunteerism%u2022 Leadership growth: Foster personal and professional development that prepares students for leadership roles in societyDUT ADVANCEMENT AND ALUMNI RELATIONS UNIT LAUNCHES GROUNDBREAKING RISE PROGRAMME The programme is also strategically aligned with DUT%u2019s vision of fostering a dynamic, connected alumni network that continues to add value to the University%u2019s mission.Key Features and Benefits%u2022 Mentorship opportunities with experienced alumni%u2022 Workplace readiness workshops and career support tools%u2022 Networking events to bridge students with industry leaders%u2022 Volunteer and leadership opportunities within the University%u2022 Community-building initiatives to sustain post-graduation engagementThe launch included presentations from industry partners, and attendees engaged and explored potential collaborations with corporate representatives. Industry stakeholders showcased their branding, reinforcing their role in empowering future DUT graduates.A call was sent out to DUT students to design a logo for the DUT RISE Programme as part of the build-up to the launch and the winner and their logo was officially announced at the launch.Ronelle LysonPictured: Ronelle Lyson, Alumni Relations Coordinator.