The Department of Architecture at Durban University of Technology (DUT) hosted the Student Excellence Awards (SEA) 2024 and Exhibition to honour exceptional students’ achievements and contributions across campuses at Steve Biko Campus on Friday, 22 November 2024.
This prestigious event was organised by members of the administrative subcommittee in the department who were Mr Robert Dwamena, Chair of Committee, Ms Rosalinde Julia McCarthy, the secretary of the Architecture department, Ms Nomthandazo Sibisi, Mr Perez Balkissoon and Ms Zolisile Hlatshwayo, who are support staff.
In his welcome address the Head of the Department (HOD) of Architecture at DUT, Dr Majahamahle Mthethwa briefly highlighted the purpose of the event and appreciated the guests for availing themselves for this prestigious ceremony.
“The idea behind this ceremony is to ensure that we inspire our students to excel, be innovative and become adaptive graduates, as we are a student-centered university. Your presence in this ceremony is very appreciated. Therefore, I would like to welcome you all,’’ Dr Mthethwa.
The Acting Deputy Dean: Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at DUT, Professor Katleho Moloi described this ceremony as a testament of the students’ hard work throughout the year.
“I would like to appreciate parents as the backbone of today’s purpose and students’ academic success. It is an honour for me to be here to celebrate this moment with you. Let us remember that architecture is a long-life learning journey. Therefore, use your skills to create innovative solutions to uplift your communities. Congratulations once again we are very proud of you,’’ said Prof Moloi.
The Architectural lecturer, Mr Wendle Naidoo who was a Programme Director lauded students for their contribution not only in academics but in assisting the department. “Parents be proud of your children and what they have achieved,’’ he added.
He also acknowledged one of the sponsors DD Kitts & Stationery CC and Mr Kumaringengan who were honoured with an award for their massive contribution to the Architectural department throughout the years.
Kekeletso Chalatsi, hailing from Matatiele, Eastern Cape, a four-year Architectural Honours student, headlined the ceremony by walking away with three awards. The Fourth-Year Top Achiever, Outstanding Student and the Exemplary Leadership Award.
“For me who takes motivation only from my background and situation; it has really been inspiring for all my hard work from the motivation to be fruitful,’’ said Chalatsi.
Amongst the more than 27 students who had won at the ceremony was Phumelele Mahlase who claimed two awards including being the Third- Year Top Achiever. Owami Nyide was named the Second-Year Top Achiever. Tebogo Ramoroka was victorious as the First-Year Top Achiever.
One of the parents who was also in attendance, Mr Dawood Junaid from Durban said it was very inspiration and it was great to see that their kids were studying hard, putting all the effort in. “Hopefully they will finish their degrees and make something out of it. As parents we never got this kind of opportunity, but we made it possible for them to have these opportunities. We are proud that they have taken this opportunity with both hands,’’ said Junaid.
The students also presented their academic projects in powerpoint and on exhibition. All the winners were awarded with their awards and gifts.
The Department of Architecture lecturer, Ms Virthi Bansi closed off the ceremony by appreciating parents, sponsors, the department for event’s success and most importantly the students for their academic success.
Pictured: Department of Architecture staff and students at the Students Excellence Awards (SEA) 2024.
Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.
Vukani Langa
