In a striking display of skill, dedication and determination, students from the Department of Information and Communications Technology in the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), have left an indelible mark at the recent WorldSkills South Africa Provincial Competition.
This event which was held at the Lephalale Technical and Vocational Education Training College Campus in Limpopo, South Africa, which showcased the outstanding talents of the institution’s four exceptional individuals, namely Nomfundo Manyoni, Siphesihle Sephaka, Sindiswa Mkhenya, and Mpendulo Xulu. They proudly represented the institution, demonstrating their remarkable skills and competing on a national stage.
WorldSkills South Africa is a distinguished member of the larger WorldSkills International (WSI) organisation, a non-profit entity established in 1950. At the core of WSI’s mission is the promotion and facilitation of skills and competitive standards, recognising their critical role in achieving economic success.
This initiative aligns with the Department of Higher Education and Training’s “Decade of the Artisan,” a commendable advocacy programme that commenced in 2014 and is scheduled for completion in 2024.
The participation of the students in the WorldSkills South Africa Provincial Competition underscores the institution’s unwavering commitment to raising standards in work-based learning. The students’ participation in skill and trade competitions has ignited enthusiasm within the university, motivating students and encouraging them to push their technical and professional skills to new heights.
Mkhenya, one of the participating students said that being part of the mobile robotics competition was a very exciting opportunity as they got to venture into the world of robotics from having to assemble the projects and having the opportunity to learn a new coding.
“Even though we felt a bit threatened participating amongst people who were already experienced but through all that we managed to triumph through all the challenges that came our way. We look forward to the next round,” he said.
Executive Dean: Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Professor Oludayo Olugbara said that the exceptional talents of the four students representing the university were validated when they secured the title of second runner-up in the competition, competing against other South African provinces.
“Their achievement speaks volumes about the quality of education and training they receive, and it serves as an inspiring example for their peers, motivating them to strive for excellence in their chosen fields. The participation of South African students in international competitions like WorldSkills South Africa is a vital step towards fulfilling the nation’s commitment to economic success through the development of its human capital. The future of South Africa undoubtedly looks brighter with talented individuals like Nomfundo Manyoni, Siphesihle Sephaka, Sindiswa Mkhenya, and Mpendulo Xulu leading the way. Their remarkable achievements are a source of pride for their university and a source of inspiration for the entire nation,” he said elatedly.
The four students are all set to take on the next challenge as they gear up for the second round of the competition. This next phase is scheduled to take place in Durban early next year, in 2024.
“Their continued participation exemplifies their commitment to excellence and raises the bar for vocational education and training in South Africa. We eagerly await their next steps in this exciting journey,” said Prof Olugbara.
Pictured: The DUT students who participated in the WorldSkills South Africa competition.
Siphokazi Dlamini
