The Human Capital Services (HCS) unit at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) hosted a two-day Staff Orientation programme, coordinated by Skills Development Officer Ms Kirshni Rhyman. The event took place on Tuesday, 1 April 2025 and Wednesday, 2 April 2025, at the Elangeni Hotel in Durban. Designed to welcome and integrate newly appointed staff, the orientation provided a valuable platform for participants to connect, exchange ideas and gain further insight into DUT. The programme was attended by new employees across various faculties, departments and units, along with members of the university’s executive leadership team.

Mr Avhatakali Nenungwi, Director of Organisational Development and Talent Management at DUT, directed the programme, warmly welcoming the new staff and emphasising the importance of connecting with leadership and building strong relationships. He encouraged participants to take full advantage of the orientation, explaining that it was designed to help new staff members better understand the institution and feel part of the DUT community.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor: People and Operations, Dr Vuyo Mthethwa, delivered the keynote address. She warmly welcomed DUT new staff members, expressing her hope to inspire and energise them as they embark on their journeys at DUT. She challenged the new employees to define their personal journeys at DUT, to be ambitious, and to set clear goals for themselves. “My challenge to you is to be the change you wish to see at DUT, let your contribution be visible and impactful,” said Dr Mthethwa.

She also urged staff to maintain their sense of curiosity and innovation, encouraging them not to follow the old routine of where they work but instead to bring fresh perspectives, critical thinking, and contribute meaningfully to the university’s future.

The DUT ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles was showcased by Mr Nenungwi in which, he explained that while all values are essential at DUT, the university also recognises and respects individual uniqueness, acknowledging that everyone is driven by their own motivations. He encouraged staff to let their talents flourish and contribute authentically to the institution’s growth, noting that DUT’s success relies on the unique strengths of every individual.

The programme continued with Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, Professor MashupyeKgaphola, who highlighted DUT’s vibrant structure of six faculties, including Engineering and the Built Environment. He reaffirmed DUT’s core mission of teaching and learning, research, and community engagement, supported by over 34,000 students. Kgaphola urged staff to embrace DUT’s innovative Philosophy of Education and emphasised that every role, whether academic or operational, was crucial to the university’s success. He encouraged all staff to believe in their DUT citizenship and to continually nurture their personal excellence.

Senior Director: Human Capital Services (Interim), Mr Musa Mkhwanazi, provided an overview of Human Capital’s focus on developing people and aligning personal aspirations with the university’s vision. He highlighted key areas including Organisational Development, Talent Management, Talent Development, and Performance Management, all essential in strengthening DUT’s structure, culture, and overall mission. Mkhwanazi emphasised that Human Capital would support staff members throughout their journey toward achieving excellence.

Amongst other key speakers shared their insights during the orientation, including Dr Lavern Samuels from Research Innovation and Engagement (RIE), Deputy Registrar Dr Karen Lazenby, Director of Employee Relations and Talent Acquisition Mr Mxolisi Msomi, Senior Director of Institutional Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Dr Kavita Beemsen, Chief Information Officer Professor Mohohlo Samuel Tsoeu, Dean of Students Dr Clement Moreku, and Director for International Education and Partnerships Dr Lavern Samuels. Contributions also came from Senior Director of the Centre for Quality Promotion and Assurance Mr Norman Ronald, Chief Risk Officer Mr  Sikhuthali Nyangintsimbi, Acting Director for the Centre for Excellence in Learning and Teaching Dr Shoba Rathilal, Specialist Copyright Officer Dr Ramika Bansi, Senior Director of Corporate Affairs Alan Khan, Employee Relations Wellness and Compliance Officer Dudu Tshabalala, Senior Director of Real Estate Management Mr Thabani Mhlongo, Manager of Library Academic Services Mr David Thomas, Residence Coordinator Mr Sihle Zulu, Chief Financial Officer Mr. Siboniso Shabalala (Interim), Director of ICTS Customer Service Mr Nkorwana Mosehla, and Director of Facilities and Maintenance Hlamarisa Kubayi.

Executive Deans from the various faculties also presented overviews of their departments. These included Professor Sudesh Rathilal from Engineering and the Built Environment, Professor Suren Singh from Applied Sciences, Professor Oludayo O  Olugbara from Accounting and Informatics, Professor Fulufhelo Netswera from Management Sciences, and Professor Gugu Mchunu from Health Sciences.

The attendees were impressed by the wonderful and innovative work being done across the DUT faculties and the diverse range of courses offered. The event was successfully concluded on 2 April 2025 highlighting positive feedback from the employees.

Pictured: Newly appointed employees with DUT executive management attended staff orientation at Elangeni- Maharani Hotel.

Photography: S’bonele Dlamini

Sinamile Sithole