The Disability Rights Unit at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) hosted the Students With Disabilities Mentorship Programme online via Microsoft Teams on Friday, 21 July 2023.
The webinar was attended by the DUT students living with disabilities and staff members.
Ms Ayanda Nsele, Administrative Assistant at DUT’s Student Counselling and Health unit was the facilitator for the webinar. Ms Odwa Mahlungulu welcomed the attendees and gave the purpose of the day.
Since DUT is an inclusive environment, Ms Hlonitshwa Nyembezi was a sign language interpreter for the webinar.
DUT Career Resource Centre psychometrist, Phumzile Monageng based her presentation on her life journey. She advice the students to never give up on their dreams and to put effort and fight for their dreams.
“I am sharing my story to motivate and empower you and that giving up it is not the way to go. Keep pushing until you persevere,” she said.
The Student With Disabilities Mentorship Programme is a programme by the Disability Rights Unit which aims to mentor and motivate students living with disabilities to focus on their studies and not allow the disability to stop them from achieving their dreams.
Mr Lwazi Mbhele, an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration student, focused his presentation on the life of a student with a disability persevering and furthering his or hers studies with all the financial and residence challenges. Mr Mbhele touched on how motivating and encouraging it was to see persons with disabilities rise above circumstances to take leadership roles. He explained that they show the world that true leaders are not defined by their physical abilities but their character, vision and indomitable spirit.
“We are an undefeatable group of individuals. A group that aims to create a new world in spaces in the society that we live in. That is why DUT prides itself in shaping and introducing its core vision which is ENVISION2030 which brings in a higher level of inclusivity and an atmosphere of diversity and being a unified community,” said Mr Mbhele.
Coordinator for Advancement and Alumni Relations unit, Ms Ronelle Lyson presented on the mentorship programme which is on offer to the students with disabilities. The unit will be launching an Online Alumni Mentorship programme, where DUT alumni will be mentoring DUT current students. Students will receive a certificate of completion at the end of the programme. Ms Lyson also encouraged students with disabilities to go through the mentorship programme on how to be integrated, not only integrated but included in mainstream employment.
Speaking on a perceptive of a DUT alumnus, Mr Sabelo Ngema focused on how students can manage their time and balance of their academics and lifestyle. He shared his experiences as a former DUT student.
Ms Nsele thanked all the attendees for their contribution and support.
Pictured: Attendees at the Students with Disabilities webinar.
Sibahle Ngcobo
