This year marks the 21st anniversary since the Durban Institute of Technology was renamed and rebranded as the Durban University of Technology (DUT). It was a memorable moment, reinforcing the commitment to academic excellence, innovation, research and community engagement. The 21-year celebration marks a significant milestone in the university’s history, which can trace its roots back to 1907.
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 “Technikon” to a full-fledged university of technology, emphasising both practical and academic excellence. Currently, DUT is proudly guided by the inspirational ENVSION2030 strategy, where “people-centred and engaged” and “innovative and entrepreneurial” is the DNA of the university.
DUT is proud to unveil the DUT 21 logo to highlight the university’s 21-year celebration, while looking ahead to unlock the greater potential and opportunities for the future.
To unpack concept and meaning behind the DUT 21 year celebratory logo, Ms Noluthando Mchunu, Manager of the DUT Design Studio said: “It is a bold symbol of the DUT legacy, innovation and future. As DUT celebrates this 21-year milestone, we found it fitting to design a logo identity which symbolises growth, maturity and excellence.”
She revealed that the concept was built on the success of the award-winning 2024 graduation campaign, so the Design Studio has decided to continue using the key motif, representing both this achievement and the symbolic 21st birthday key.
“Central to the design is the number 21 where the 1 was creatively integrated to resemble a key. This design choice was deeply symbolic as receiving a key on your 21st birthday was a traditional emblem of coming of age, signifying independence, responsibility and new opportunities. The key element underscores the university’s 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’s commitment to the creativity and innovation that shapes adaptive graduates who transform,” elaborated Ms Mchunu.
The DUT 21 logo is accompanied by its slogan, ‘Celebrating 21 Years of Excellence’ which highlights the university’s remarkable journey since its name change. It serves as a powerful reminder to DUT’s 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. For more information on the DUT 21 logo, please kindly click on the link: DUT 21 Logo Explanation.
Pictured: DUT 21 logo
Simangele Zuma/Waheeda Peters
