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Durban University of Technology 40This year marks the 21st anniversary since the Durban Institute of Technology (DUT) was renamed and rebranded as DUT. It was a memorable moment, reinforcing the commitment to academic excellence, innovation, research and community engagement %u2013 a significant milestone in the University%u2019s history, which can trace its roots back to 1907.Durban Institute of Technology (DIT) was established in 2002 through the merger of Technikon Natal and ML Sultan Technikon. In 2004, DIT changed its name to DUT after its transition from a %u2018technikon%u2019 to a fully-fledged university of technology, emphasising both practical and academic excellence. Currently, DUT is proudly guided by the inspirational ENVISION2030 strategy, where %u2018people-centred and engaged%u2019 and %u2018innovative and entrepreneurial%u2019 is the DNA of the University.DUT is proud to unveil the DUT 21 logo to highlight the University%u2019s 21-year celebration, while looking ahead to unlock greater potential and opportunities for the future.To unpack the concept and meaning behind the DUT 21-year celebratory logo, Ms Noluthando Mchunu, Manager of the DUT Design Studio, said: %u201cIt is a bold symbol of DUT%u2019s legacy, innovation and future. As DUT celebrates this 21-year milestone, we found it fitting to design a logo identity that symbolises growth, maturity and excellence.%u201dDUT CELEBRATES 21 YEARS OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE, RESEARCH AND INNOVATIONThe concept was built on the success of the award-winning 2024 graduation campaign, so the Design Studio decided to continue using the key motif, representing both this achievement and the symbolic 21st birthday key.%u201cCentral to the design is the number 21 where the one was creatively integrated to resemble a key. This design choice was deeply symbolic as receiving a key on your 21st birthday is a traditional emblem of coming of age, signifying independence, responsibility and new opportunities. The key element underscores the University%u2019s prestige legacy and pursuit of excellence over the past 21 years. The use of the gold colour, often associated with achievement and high standards, reflects DUT%u2019s commitment to the creativity and innovation that shapes adaptive graduates who transform,%u201d said Ms Mchunu.The DUT 21 logo is accompanied by its slogan, %u2018Celebrating 21 Years of Excellence%u2019, which highlights the University%u2019s remarkable journey since its name change. It serves as a powerful reminder of DUT%u2019s contribution to education, innovation and societal development through research that drives real-world solutions.DUT calls upon its staff and students to join the 21-year celebrations and help unlock the future together.Simangele Zuma/Waheeda PetersPictured: The DUT 21 logo.