By Bliss Ndapasowa

“As a graphic designer I would build and design houses”.

This misconception was revealed yesterday at the Durban University of Technology Graphic Design first year students merit awards ceremony.

The event, hosted at the Graphic Design department at City Campus, served as a celebration and recognition of the work done by the ‘newbies’ of the department throughout the year.

Frank Kalala, one of the first year lecturers in the department stressed that this event, following an exhibition by the students, is a way of selling themselves to the masses.

He further highlighted that the function was aimed at enlightening the institution’s stakeholders, particularly high school learners who aspire to pursue Graphic Design as a career.

“We are targeting Grade 12 learners especially as we are currently working on the selection process for next year’s new students. The interviews we have conducted so far clearly indicate that most of the candidates have no idea what the program is all about,” he said.

He added that this ceremony, accompanied by an exhibition, would give insight to the aspiring candidates pertaining to what is expected of them prior to enrolment and in the field.

The ceremony was also aimed at parents and guardians, as most students revealed that some parents would hardly back this career path due to lack of understanding- a common hurdle faced by people who pursue art and design as a career.

The awards included best portfolio award, consistency award, best portfolio display, best theory and  the history award. Winners were Gilliver Kelly, Naicker Michaela Leigh, Mamba Thulisizwe Mduduzi and Hastings- Bell Micah, respectively.

Buxton Rebecca Leigh took the limelight as she walked away with the Best student award for achieving the highest marks throughout the year.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of respected names in the institution including Professor Ian Sutherland from the department of Visual Communication and Design among others.

The department is also sending invitations to willing persons to attend another exhibition and awarding ceremony for third year students to be held on November 11th where the best student will walk away with R20000 prize money.