By: Nhlanhla Mthembu

Durban University of Technology (DUT) Journalism Programme students stood out from the rest as they won in the competition initiated by the Minister of Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa as part of celebrating and remembering late journalist Nathalien “Nat Nakasa” Ndazana at Moses Mabhida on Saturday.

In celebrating the life of Nakasa, Mthethwa initiated a series of programs that focused on young people and they covered two categories: an essay competition for journalism students doing their second year of study and Debate competition for High school pupil.

The students had to research and study about the life of the late journalist and novelist Nat Nakasa.

Sbongakonke Mbatha, second year journalism student at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), took the first place in essay writing competition and she said that she was very honored about winning the completion.

“Well for me winning this competition was quite an honor, especially being received by a room full of great leaders in journalism, writing and government,” she said.

Mbatha says she became curious after the Arts and Culture Department went to New York for remains of Nat, and she wanted to know the significant role played by Nat in South Africa.

“To be quite honest, I became curious in knowing who Nakasa was when our leadership was in state to bring back his remains. When they mentioned that he was a journalist, I wanted to know why he was important to government and why is bringing his remains such an important issue,” added Mbatha.

Qiniso Mbili also from DUT Journalism took second place in the competition. He says that he never expected to win in this competition.

“I am happy and motivatead. Surprised too, when I submitted my entry I never expected to win.” In his essay is titled ‘Finding Nat. He says that it only took him two weeks.

On the third position was Nkamogeleng Lebeloane, journalism student from Tshwane University of Technology.

According to Mathatha Tsedu executive director of South African National Editors Forum (Sanef), these students did not only win certificate and laptop but also secured they place for internship in any media company they desire to be.