Solomzi Zoleka, the newly elected Durban University of Technology (DUT) Student Representative Council (SRC) President vowed that under his leadership he will ensure that there is a safe learning and working environment for the DUT community. Zoleka made his acceptance speech at the 2023/25 SRC Inauguration hosted by Student Governance and Development at the Fred Crookes Sport Centre, Steve Biko campus on Monday, 02 October 2023.
The incoming SRC are the beneficiaries of the recently approved SRC constitutional amendments, which is the extension of the term of office for the SRC to a two-year term. The extension of the term of office is to afford student leaders enough time to acclimatise to office.
Zoleka applauded the outgoing SRC president, Sanele Khumalo for his remarkable words that he had shared with, especially about the generational mission that needs to be fulfilled. He also applauded the 2022/23 SRC for redefining student activism and realigning with the DUT values and principles.
In his speech, he relayed that the newly elected SRC entered into the term with full understanding that all of them have the moral duty and obligation to the strategic plan, ENVISION2030. “As adaptive people, we have to build and demonstrate our acumen to initiate and/or respond to changes in the world, provide solutions to societal problems, and thus, contribute towards improving the lives and livelihoods of our broader society,” he said.
He commented that the previous SRC has redefined student activism and realigned with DUT values and principles. “We understand that ENVISION2030 has three implementation phases and periods, namely the Different: 2020-2023, the Upended: 2024-2026 and the Transformed: 2027- 2030 periods. I have no doubt that the previous SRC focused on different periods which aimed to focus on embedding DUT values and principles, on ensuring we abide by the DUT Way, on building and refining our systems and processes. We entered office for continuity of phase 2 which is upended,” It is during this phase that our behaviour, actions, and practices must tell a story more than our words. We must also begin to see sustainable outcomes and impacts of our new philosophy of education, sustainable outcomes and impacts of innovation and entrepreneurship beyond the transient ones we are already witnessing,” he added.
DUT Engagement Practitioner, Ms Phumzile Xulu was the programme director for the event. She welcomed all the guests in attendance and the incoming SRC. Xulu then welcomed Dr Clement Moreku, Dean of Students who delivered the opening and welcoming remarks.
“It is with great pride and excitement as we celebrate a truly momentous occasion. The SRC is a statutory body that plays a critical role as the only legitimate voice of the students. I would like to extend my warm congratulations to the newly elected SRC members, your journey to this point has been a remarkable one, characterised by dedication, passion and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of our student,” said Dr Moreku.
Dr Moreku further said that as the newly elected SRC steps into their roles as student leaders, they carry the aspirations and the hopes of the entire students community with them. He indicated that he does not doubt that they are up to the task. He acknowledged the outgoing SRC members for exemplifying the very best of student leadership. He applauded them for advocating for the student body, being the catalyst for positive change and for being ambassadors for the university’s values.
Former SRC president, Sanele Khumalo delivered his farewell speech. In his speech, he urged the newly elected SRC to be the voice for all students and ensure that students are allocated in residences that are in good condition and safe.
Ms Fathima Haffejee, Director of Student Services was assigned to introduce the incoming SRC members who pledged in front of the DUT community to lead the students with honesty and success. The newly elected SRC Deputy President, Bongani Mchunu led the SRC pledge.
Delivering the keynote address in absentia of the Vice- Chancellor and Principal was the Institutional Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane. He acknowledged and appreciated the historic role and impact of the outgoing SRC, and for their sterling contributions to the university. He said that the outgoing SRC reflected the true spirit of unity in diversity. He further said that this is the first time since his arrival at DUT, this is the first SRC that he has inaugurated and bid farewell to in its entirely. To the incoming SRC, Dr Nkonoane hoped they will continue with the good work where the outgoing SRC left off, and follow in their footsteps.
The newly elected SRC representatives are:
In closing the Manager of Student Governance and Development, Mr Masiza Ngculu thanked the guests and students for attending the prestigious event. He congratulated the incoming SRC for their two-year term and urge them to seek counselling services as it not normal to always deal with problems with professional help when required.
The 2023/25 elected SRC members:
- Solomzi Zoleka; President
- Bongani Mchunu: Deputy President
- Melusi Tshabalala: Secretary General
- Wandiswa Mncube: Deputy Secretary
- Sihle Nkosi: Finance Officer
- Ayanda Mbotho: Sports and Recreation Officer (PMB)
- Fezeka Majombozi: Sports and Recreation Officer (DBN)
- Bongumusa Shinga: Academic Officer (DBN)
- Silindile Ximba: Academic Officer (PMB)
- Otto Pupuma: Social and Welfare Officer (PMB)
- Silindile Mabonga: Social and Welfare Officer (DBN)
- Syabonga Mbatha: Project Officer (PMB)
- Thando Magagula: Project Officer (DBN)
- Mhleli Zuma: Organisations and Accommodation Officer (DBN)
- Sphamandla Mbatha: Organisations and Accommodation Officer (PMB)
Pictured: DUT Executive Management Committee with the newly elected SRC.
Sibahle Ngcobo
