Latest news with #DurbanUniversityofTechnology
IOL News
2 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
New horizons: Opportunities for South African students in China
In the exclusive insights into the vast opportunities available for South African students to study in China, it was revealed that an array of scholarship programs and academic partnerships have already fostered fruitful exchange of knowledge and skills. They say when one door closes, another one opens, and China is always at the forefront of opening doors and providing Africans opportunities to learn and grow in everything they put their minds to. In a world increasingly characterised by division and discord, a recent speech by Jiang Yurong, a Chinese graduate from Harvard University, has resonated deeply within both the United States and China. Jiang delivered her message of unity on Thursday, coinciding with significant political developments surrounding immigration policy and international education."We don't rise by proving each other wrong. We rise by refusing to let one another go," Jiang said. Her speech went viral in China, with some saying it moved them while others were critical. Correlating this week, in an exclusive interview with the Consul General of China in Durban, Li Zhigong, one of the underlying themes in the conversation was about unlocking potential across borders and exploring how South African students can benefit from studying in China and the myriad of collaborative opportunities that await. In the exclusive insights into the vast opportunities available for South African students to study in China from Li, it was revealed that an array of scholarship programs and academic partnerships have already fostered fruitful exchange of knowledge and skills. According to Li, the Chinese government offers a comprehensive suite of scholarship programmes designed to entice South African students. "These scholarships, available for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies, encompass a wide array of benefits including tuition coverage, provision of textbooks, multiple round-trip flights, and a monthly stipend," he said. He highlighted that the disciplines in high demand span engineering, medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), agriculture, information and communication technology (ICT), international relations, and the study of Chinese language and culture — all areas that align closely with South Africa's developmental needs. "The Consulate warmly encourages prospective applicants, highlighting the importance of returnees as contributors to bilateral cooperation," he said. He further highlighted that collaboration is key to enhancing the educational ties between South African institutions and Chinese universities. "Opportunities for joint research initiatives, student and staff exchanges, as well as co-hosted academic programmes are flourishing. For instance, the Durban University of Technology (DUT) has established a partnership with Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University to promote skills development. Notably, the Confucius Institute at DUT has emerged as a prominent cultural and language platform, training thousands of students in Chinese language and culture. The partnership between the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and the Centers for Disease Control in Sichuan province, focusing on HIV/AIDS research and facilitating exchanges of Chinese medical students, exemplifies the potential of such collaborations," he explained. Li also added that the Consulate General is also actively involved in skills development initiatives that enhance economic cooperation between China and South Africa. A focus on technical skills training is evident through collaborations with Chinese enterprises and educational institutions. Areas covered include construction safety, welding, mechanical skills training, and innovative 'Chinese + Vocational Skills' programmes through the Confucius Institute at DUT. In partnership with Tianjin Vocational Institute, the establishment of the Luban Workshop is dedicated to vocational education, he said. He added that the introduction of Juncao technology for mushroom cultivation has empowered local farmers with practical skills while sharing China's poverty alleviation experiences. "Each year, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce organises a variety of training programmes aimed at capacity building and exchange, with many individuals from KwaZulu-Natal already benefiting from these initiatives," he said. *This is Part 3 of a series of exclusive interviews that the Chinese Consul General in Durban, Li Zhigong, granted the Daily News' editor, Ayanda Mdluli.
IOL News
2 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Cultural exchange between South Africa and China: A focus on growth and opportunity
Unlocking the potential of South Africa-China relations through cultural exchange Explore the rich landscape of South Africa-China relations as the Chinese Consulate in Durban reveals plans for deeper cultural exchanges and educational opportunities for local students. The Chinese Consulate in Durban, South Africa has revealed plans for deeper cultural exchanges and educational opportunities for local students. In an exclusive, yet candid interview with the Daily News this week, Li Zhigong, the Chinese Consul in Durban said these initiatives are set to foster understanding and collaboration between the two countries. As both nation continued to seek to strengthen their ties, cultural exchange emerged in the conversation as a pivotal tool for fostering understanding and collaboration. Li elaborated on how the Chinese Consulate in Durban promotes cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the two nations. He explained that the consulate actively collaborates with local institutions and the Confucius Institute at Durban University of Technology in the region to bring Chinese culture to South Africa while also celebrating South African traditions. "This dual approach enhances respect and comprehension between the two countries," he said. The Consulate has organised a variety of events aimed at bridging cultural divides. Festivals, exhibitions, and film screenings are among the many initiatives that have enriched Durban's cultural landscape. According to Li, Notable events include the vibrant celebrations of Chinese New Year, the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the National Day Reception. "These gatherings serve not only to celebrate Chinese heritage but also to foster dialogue and interaction with local communities," he explained. Furthermore, the consulate has supported various groups from China to present Chinese Pictures and Films Shows, calligraphy workshops, and traditional dance performances. One particularly exciting initiative on the horizon is the "China Cultural Camp" hosted by the Shude Chinese School in Durban. Set to take place in the latter half of this year, this camp will welcome dozens of teachers from China, offering local children and anyone interested in Chinese culture a unique opportunity to engage and partake in an enriching cultural experience. Education remains another cornerstone of the cultural exchange between South Africa and China. Li detailed how South African students and scholars can access scholarships or exchange programmes in China. "Applications can be made through the Chinese Embassy's scholarship platform or via the Confucius Institute for both language and degree scholarships. These comprehensive programs cover tuition, accommodation, and living stipends. The Consulate consistently works to ensure that the application process is transparent and fair, providing guidance and liaising with educational institutions to facilitate student access," he said. As both countries continue to navigate their relationship, cultural exchanges play a vital role in promoting cooperation, understanding, and a shared vision for the future. "Investment in cultural exchanges is an investment in our future partnerships,' concluded Li.
IOL News
27-05-2025
- General
- IOL News
A mother's poignant graduation tribute
Mrs Thembisile Hlatshwayo at her daughter's Sinenhlanhla Hlatshwayo graduation at DUT. Image: DUT/Supplied They say that the worst pain is a mother burying her child. It must also be painful for a mother to attend a graduation and accept a posthumous qualification on behalf of her late daughter. This was the painful reality for Mrs Thembisile Hlatshwayo. In an emotionally charged moment, Hlatshwayo took to the stage at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) at the weekend —not as a graduate, but as a grieving mother honouring the memory of her daughter, Sinenhlanhla Hlatshwayo. With tears streaming down her face and unimaginable courage in her heart, Hlatshwayo accepted a posthumous Diploma in Information and Communications Technology (ICT): Applications Development on behalf of her daughter, who passed away just days after completing her final exams. The graduation ceremony was held at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban. The audience stood still as DUT Registrar, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, extended heartfelt condolences to the Hlatshwayo family. A moment of silence was also observed to honour the young woman whose dream was cut short too soon. 'She left DUT on the 7th of November after completing her final exams. She was home for seven days, seemed fine, and then… she was gone,' Mrs Hlatshwayo said quietly after the ceremony. 'She was not sick. She slept and never woke up. We still don't know what took her.' Sinenhlanhla passed away on November 14, 2024, leaving behind a devastated family and a heartbroken community in Mtubatuba, northern KwaZulu-Natal. The unexplained nature of her death continues to haunt her loved ones, with no cause yet confirmed. Hlatshwayo recounted the morning she returned home from an all-night church service, only to find her daughter cold and lifeless in bed. 'She was our hope,' she said, her voice trembling. 'She was the only one in university. We were all looking forward to the life she would build for herself and for us.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ What used to be a cause for celebration and hope turned into grief. Her younger son, who had been preparing to start university, is too afraid to follow in his sister's footsteps. 'He told me he's scared. Scared that he'll go and never come back, just like his sister,' said Hlatshwayo. Despite the pain, she made the brave choice to walk across that stage in her daughter's name. 'It was hard,' she said. 'But I needed to do it for her. She worked so hard. That diploma belongs to her, and it had to come home.' Cape Argus
IOL News
26-05-2025
- General
- IOL News
A mother's heartache: Accepting a posthumous diploma for her late daughter
They say that the worst pain is a mother burying her child. It must also be painful for a mother to attend a graduation and accept a posthumous qualification on behalf of her late daughter. This was the painful reality for Mrs Thembisile Hlatshwayo. In an emotionally charged moment, Mrs Hlatshwayo took to the stage at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) at the weekend —not as a graduate, but as a grieving mother honouring the memory of her daughter, Sinenhlanhla Hlatshwayo. With tears streaming down her face and unimaginable courage in her heart, Mrs Hlatshwayo accepted a posthumous Diploma in Information and Communications Technology (ICT): Applications Development on behalf of her daughter, who passed away just days after completing her final exams. The graduation ceremony was held at the Olive Convention Centre in Durban.
The Citizen
12-05-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
NSFAS disputes claims of 2025 registration portal closure
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has distanced itself from a message currently circulating on social media platforms claiming that its 2025 registration portal has closed due to ongoing budget constraints. In a statement issued this week, NSFAS described the claims as 'entirely misleading' and a 'gross misrepresentation' of its current operations and funding position. 'NSFAS strongly repudiates this inaccurate communication,' the scheme said. The misleading message allegedly originated from the Durban University of Technology (DUT). NSFAS has called on the institution to issue an immediate correction, warning that such inaccurate statements not only mislead students and stakeholders but also potentially undermine the reputation of the funding scheme. NSFAS explained that it had issued Circular Notice No. 4 of 2025, on 3 March 2025, confirming that the registration portal was open and ready to receive valid registration data from the institutions, form that date onwards. While the official cut-off date for submission of 2025 registration data was 31 March 2025, NSFAS said the universities were encouraged to submit by 14 March 2025 (close of business). 'This earlier submission was recommended to ensure timely processing and subsequent disbursement of funds by the end of March 2025. It is therefore regrettable that some institutions, including the Durban University of Technology (DUT), did not adhere to the recommended deadline for the submission of the required registration data,' NSFAS explained. It said the non-compliance has unfortunately delayed the disbursement of tuition and living allowances to eligible students at these institutions. NSFAS confirmed that student allowance payments were released to the affected universities on 6 May 2025, and tuition fee payments are expected to follow in due course. The scheme reiterated its commitment to ensuring timely and efficient disbursement of funding and urged all institutions to comply with the stipulated data submission deadlines, to avoid unnecessary delays. Outstanding 2024 TVET Allowances Meanwhile, NSFAS has acknowledged ongoing concerns regarding unpaid 2024 allowances for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students. The scheme attributed the delays to transitional challenges experienced during the switch to direct payment partners, and the subsequent return of this function to NSFAS during the 2024 academic year. 'This transition necessitated a complex reconciliation process, which has been undertaken concurrently with the commencement of the 2025 academic year. NSFAS is nearing the completion of this reconciliation process, and is committed to resolving the outstanding payments,' NSFAS said. NSFAS confirmed that the monthly TVET allowances for the 2025 academic year will be paid on 25 May 2025, while a special payment run to clear unpaid 2024 TVET allowances is scheduled for 31 May 2025. 'NSFAS remains steadfast in its commitment to working collaboratively with the sector to meet its obligations and address systemic challenges to ensure the efficient disbursement of funds to eligible students.' – At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
