By: Tony Manyangadze

Hundreds of High school learners from KwaZulu-Natal swarmed the grounds of the Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Steve Biko Campus for the Open Week.

The annual event saw 95 high schools being invited to bring learners to the university to acquire more information and requirements of diplomas and degrees they wish to peruse upon matriculating.

“The Open Week is a way to bring high school learners to our campus, give them access and information to all our 65 programmes,” said Alan Khan, Senior Director Cooperate Affairs at DUT.

“This year we have had 10 835 confirming that they will be attending,” Khan added.

Thabani Linda, a grade 11 pupil from Mgamule High school could not hide his joy after a chat at the Sports Management tent. The soccer fanatic was so interested to know that such a programme exists.

“I really liked Sports Management and definitely I will be applying for it,” said Thabani.

Some of the High School learners who attended the DUT’s Open Week. Pictures by: Tony Manyangadze

Even the educators expressed their appreciation of the Open Week stating that it is in the interest of the learners. “Its great for the leaners, its beneficiary to them,” said N.E Mzulwini, a teacher from Sotobe High School. “Next time they (DUT) should provide lunch for the educators,” she added, jokingly.

The huge turnout also ferried waves of excitement amongst exhibitors from various programmes that DUT offers.

“The learners attendance is amazing. They are very excited, from grade nine leaners to grade twelve learners who have already applied and are excited to see the work students do,” said Sunthra Moodley, the Head of Department for Fashion at DUT.

Interesting to note is that the this years Open Week is combined with the World of Work, a career fair where various companies exhibit what they do and what qualifications one should have to work for them. This initiative was initially intended for university students but this year it’s for both university students and high school leaners.

The Open Week is still underway and is scheduled to end on Saturday.