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Fashion
students
win big
at VDJ
Fashion students showcase in China at Graduate
Fashion Week
Another DUT Journalism student off to America
Bopape wins Future Generation Art Prize
Durban University of Technology’s Permanent
Art Collection
Durban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine
ISSUE
TWO
Credits
Editor: Andile Dube
031 373 6455/ andiled@dut.ac.za
Contributors: Bongani Gema, Sthabile Gwala, Noxolo Memela, Waheeda Peters, and Shanice Pillay
Proofreader: Terry D. Herd
Images: Bongani Gema, Sthabile Gwala, Morgan Kisten, Dave Macleod/Gameplan Media, Waheeda Peters,
Val Adamson and Christy Strever
On the Cover: Katekani Moreku with his model Luvuyo Shoba
Layout and Design: Nic Human
Publisher: Faculty of Arts and Design (FoAD)
Editor-in-Chief: FoAD Executive Dean, Dr René Smith
2 www.facebook.com/dutartsanddesign
Contents
Awards and Honours
Pillay wins regional Redbull Doodle Art international competition 6
Cover Feature
Fashion students win big at VDJ 7
Exhibitions
De Beer explores the conceptualisation of a feminine Imaginary 10
Durban University of Technology’s Permanent Art Collection 11
Internationalisation in FoAD
Fashion students showcase in China at Graduate Fashion Week 12
News
Another DUT Journalism student off to America 14
Drama students perform for Vice Premier of China 15
Moliere’s Tartuffe at the Courtyard Theatre 16
Zungu and Ngema off to Limon Dance Company in New York 17
TIP and LP students at DUT Africa Day celebration 18
FoAD at DUT Open Week 19
Graduation
Double celebration for Fashion twins 20
Seminars
Second annual Dean’s Seminar highlights challenges facing deaf people 21
Blecher facilitates FoAD’s Design Thinking Workshop 22
Our Alumni
Bopape wins Future Generation Art Prize 23
Durban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine | Issue Two 2017 3
Editor’s Note
My love for history has been a gradual thing really and it pains me that there are very few documentaries being made that tell
the story of South Africa or Africans.
Personally, I think there is a vast history that is just waiting to be told. The way the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)
commissions film makers to make documentaries about British history is amazing. When you browse the internet, you only
find documentaries that talk about Europe or the West.
My search for history led me to learning more about the Queen of England who has been on the throne of the United
Kingdom for over 65 years. To date Her Majesty is the first British monarch to celebrate the Blue Sapphire Jubilee and if she lives
until 2022, she will break all records by reaching a Platinum Jubilee.
My fascination with the Queen goes beyond the fact that she is always fashionable but her commitment to duty is something
that should be admired by all. The Queen always looks reflective, poised and majestic.
Some of the feedback I received from our previous issue was from Prof Lutge from the Drama department who said the articles
were so affirming. I am truly touched by this. I am glad if this magazine has served as a reflective tool for you in the important
work you are doing in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
In this issue you can read about former Fine Art graduate, Dineo
Bopape who won the Future Generation Art Prize, walking away
with a $100,000 cash award at the Venice Biennale.
I am proud of Journalism student Eugene Lukhozi who will be
jetting off to America next month to study at the Scottsdale
Community College in Arizona.
As always we look forward to hearing your views on the magazine
or if you have any stories you’d like to share, do not hesitate to send
me an email on andiled@dut.ac.za. You can also like our Facebook
by liking our page www.facebook.com/dutartsandesign or follow
us on twitter on @DutFoAD.
Until next semester, stay blessed!
Andile
4 www.facebook.com/dutartsanddesign
THE HIGHER EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS SUB-FRAMEWORK (HEQSF)
The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) is a system for the classification, registration and publication of
articulated and quality assured national qualifications. The revised Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework
(HEQSF), which was gazetted on 2 August 2013, forms part of this framework. The Faculty of Arts and Design is
in the process of aligning all qualifications to the revised HEQSF.
What does this mean?
Qualifications that are not aligned to the HEQSF will be phased out. New qualifications will replace the BTech and
National Diploma. Some departments have opted to offer HEQSF-aligned Diploma qualifications, whilst others
will offer Degrees.
The BTech, N Dip. and other qualifications that are not HEQSF-aligned will not be offered to first-time registering
students from January 2020. Students who have registered for non-aligned qualifications before 31 December
2019 will need to complete that qualification before the final phase out date of that particular programme.
Students who have already completed their National Diploma (NDip) and wish to register for the BTech have
until 2019 to do so.
How does this affect me?
You need to ensure you complete your course before the final phase out date for the qualification you have
registered for. As the BTech does not exist on the HEQSF, the Minister of Higher Education has gazetted 31
December 2019 as the final date for first-time entering students enrolling in academic programmes that are not
aligned with the HEQSF. You will need to check the entry requirements and articulation pathways of your chosen
course before applying.
What effect does this have on my qualifications that were on the old NQF and not on the HEQSF?
Your qualifications are still valid even though some of the current qualification types are not available on
the HEQSF.
WHat are my options?
For new (first-year, first-time) students registering, progression will be as follows:
• Diploma Advanced Diploma Postgraduate Diploma Master's Degree PhD/ Doctorate
Or
• Bachelor's Degree Honours Degree Master's Degree PhD/ Doctorate
Please note: This is the general route of progression on the HEQSF. For specific information on what qualifications
will be offered by particular academic programmes, please consult the relevant department.
Further information contact: the Faculty Office on 031 373 6522/6520 or go to:
http://www.satn.org.za/
Durban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine | Issue Two 2017 5
&
Awards Honours
Pillay wins regional Redbull Doodle Art
international competition
STHABILE GWALA
Third year Graphic Design student, Sabastien Pillay was recently crowned regional
winner of the Redbull Doodle Art international competition.
Pillay beat hopefuls from other African countries and jetted off to Austria to join
other winners from countries like Brazil, United States, and Egypt where one was
named the global winner.
For the Redbull Doodle art competition, a template was provided and students
were required to doodle in that template and submit their entries. Pillay did that
and qualified for the voting stage. From the voting he was chosen as the regional
winner.
The topic for this competition was “where does your mind take you”.
Graphic Design student, Sabastien Pillay.
He explained: “With this topic I created a doodle that depicted my mind, which is
chaotic. I showed this in a freestyle manner that was illustrated around the word
“hi”. I chose the word Hi since I wanted to make it a personal affair as it deals with
my mind”.
In the illustration Pillay added elements that relate to him, his interests and gives
you a look at his thought process. Overall there was a core message that was “Focus,
Pillay’s winning design for the Redbull Doodle Art international competition.
love and create”. Focus, regardless of the challenges in life, work hard and get work
done. Love, since everyone is searching for happiness, and with love, one can be
happy and create situations in which we can shine and do our best.
Last year Pillay won the Interpret Durban competition and as part of his prize, he
held an exhibition at the African Art Centre entitled, Dualities of Preservation.
6 www.facebook.com/dutartsanddesign
&
Awards Honours
Fashion students
win big at VDJ
STHABILE GWALA
The Durban University of Technology dominated the top three positions in the prestigious Vodacom Durban July Young Designer Award presented by Durban
Fashion Fair. Student designer, Katekani Moreku took home the first prize with Hlengiwe Mdunge and Nasreen Paruk winning second and third place. The
three DUT winners were hailed as the next best set of designers by the judges. STHABILE GWALA from DUT Corporate Affairs caught up with the three
winners to find out about their experience at the Vodacom Durban July Young Designer Awards as well as their plans for the future.
Katekani Moreku How much of an impact has the Young Designer Award made in your
career?
Tell me about yourself? Getting first place has been a great way to kick start my career, it gave me
I am 25 years old and I come from a small village called Wilverdiend in recognition, a great introduction to the industry and now I have a great
Bushbuckridge. achievement to mention in my CV.
Why did you choose to study fashion design? What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue the
I chose fashion because of my love for clothing and I saw it as an opportunity same career path as you?
for me to voice out my opinion on what and how I think people should express Invest in yourself. Work hard to build yourself up, embrace being different and
themselves through clothing. always express and your uniqueness in everything you do.
What inspired you garment for the Young Designer Award competition? What are your plans for the future?
My garment is inspired by the carnivals of yester-year like the Durban July I would like to showcase my work overseas.
main event. The carnival has many beautiful and colourful things happening
all at once but still exude that one magical feeling of fun. So I decided to
make a tailcoat suit with each panel having its own unique, colour print.
Students pose with models at the
Vodacom Durban July Designer Award
finals announcement party.
Durban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine | Issue Two 2017 7
&
Awards Honours
Fashion students win big at VDJ
(continues)
STHABILE GWALA
Hlengiwe Mdunge Nasreen Paruk
Why did you choose to study fashion design? Why did you choose to study fashion design?
Fashion design has always been inside of me. When I was younger I used to sew all my clothes, I studied Biological Science for a year and I didn’t enjoy it.
and after I bought a sewing machine I decided to answer my calling and study fashion design. Thereafter I decided to follow my passion of being a fashion
designer. I have always been interested in fashion design and is
What inspired your garment for the Young Designer Award competition? something I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
My garment is inspired by magic and illusions. How magicians trick people in finding a gap in
our perceptions and our way of thinking and using that to play with our minds. What inspired your garment for the Young Designer
Award competition?
How much of an impact has the award made in your career? I made a screen printed dress with a detachable PVC over skirts
It has exposed me to established designers, and their work and it’s been such a meaningful inspired by the Optical Art of the 1950s and 60s.
experience and I’m so grateful for it.
How much of an impact has the award made in your
What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue the same career career?
path as you? Being in the top three of the Young Designer Award has had a
The industry is very competitive so you need a lot of patience and passion. huge impact in my level of confidence. And I know now that I am
capable and I can do it.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to
pursue the same career path as you?
Make sure that fashion is something that you love because it
requires a lot of hard work and dedication. The only thing that will
push you and motivate you to keep working hard is your passion
and your vision for where you see yourself in the future.
What are your plans for the future?
I would like to do my BTech, also further my studies overseas and
teach at an international school on the subject of art and design.
I also intend on studying photography in the near future.
The top three of the Vodacom Durban July Young Designer Award,
presented by Durban Fashion Fair, (from left): Third place Pinkie
Mthiyane (model) and Nazreen Paruk (designer), winner Luvuyo
Shoba (model) Katekani Moreku (designer), second place Hlengiwe
Queeneth Mdunge (designer) Bianca Khowa (model).
8 www.facebook.com/dutartsanddesign
&
Awards Honours
The winner of the Vodacom Durban July Young
Designer Award, presented by Durban Fashion Fair
was Katekani Moreku with his model Luvuyo Shoba.
Durban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine | Issue Two 2017 9
Exhibition
De Beer explores the conceptualisation
of a feminine Imaginary
ANDILE DUBE
Jewellery Design’s Marlene De Beer.
Jewellery Design lecturer, Marlene de Beer is re-conceptualizing the Her research includes a written dissertation, exhibition of artefacts and a
traditional understanding of jewellery. video presentation which include images and poetry.
De Beer recently held an exhibition at the KwaZulu-Natal Society of Arts She chose to entitle her exhibition Genealogy because her research
(KZNSA) as part of her PhD degree in Visual Arts at Stellenbosch University. forms part of an effort to establishing a genealogy.
Genealogy explores the notion of contributing to the conceptualisation
of a feminine Imaginary. The title of her dissertation is A visual and textual re-storying of the diary
of Susanna Catharina Smit (1799-1863).
She chose to work in mediums such as silver, porcelain and appropriated De Beer further explained that the aim of her project is to reappraise
materials in order to create small sculptures, wearable objects, and historical interpretations of Afrikaner female subjectivity and cultural
objects that allude to wearability. ideological representations.
De Beer who has been a lecturer at DUT for over 10 years used her “The re-storying of historical texts provides the opportunity to destabilise
artisanal skills to add detail to some of the objects. the foreclosure of women from the symbolic, and at the same time
challenges masculine privilege and exclusive access to universal
“I am re-storying the archives of three women, my maternal ancestors. One knowledge. Western myths grounded in the patriarchal imaginary and
is a Voortrekker woman whose diaries are kept in the Pietermaritzburg symbolic have historically excluded the idea of a female genealogy or
archival facility. My research is from a feminist psycho-analytical divine (Irigaray, 1983:57-72),” she said.
perspective,” de Beer said.
10 www.facebook.com/dutartsanddesignExhibition
Durban University of Technology’s
Permanent Art Collection
SOFTCOPY REPORTER
The Durban University of Technology Art Collection is a valuable cultural resource of
local, provincial and national significance.
The University Art Collection is an important resource for research and scholarship,
exhibition, and educational purposes shared by the academic and cultural
communities it serves. The collection also greatly enhances the cultural life and
aesthetics of the University and the surrounding region.
The collection contains more than 900 artworks acquired between 1983 and 2001,
which have significant aesthetic, historical and market value. Most of the University
Art Collection is on public display throughout the University’s Durban campuses.
It also consists of a variety of media, styles, time periods, and subject matter, including
contemporary and historical artworks of merit:
Painting from Durban University of Technology’s
Permanent Art Collection.
• by South African artists;
• by students or staff and other individuals with significant connections to the
University;
• that contribute to the knowledge and understanding of the communities in
which the University participates;
• the University Art Collection is intended to include primarily works by KwaZulu-
Natal artists.
Durban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine | Issue Two 2017 11Internasionalisation in FoAD
Fashion students showcase in China
at Graduate Fashion Week
ANDILE DUBE
DUT and BIFT students after their spectacular fashion show.
Durban University of Technology Fashion students Yanela Mtolo, Tide Louw, students. The use of craft, fabric manipulation techniques, and tailor made
Nivadni Sewnath and Janine Turner showcased their ranges alongside accessories brought out the uniqueness of their designs.
Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology (BIFT) students during the popular
China Graduate Fashion Week (CGFW). It was an emotional moment seeing our students and their ranges on an
international platform. For the students, it was an experience that will
The trip forms part of an MoU with BIFT which include academic exchange remain with them forever, and in their words.”
related activities between DUT and BIFT.
Held each year, CGFW is an elaborate undertaking and preview of collections
Last year, a team from BIFT visited Durban and attended the coveted annual from some of the hottest young design talents in the Asia-Pacific region.
fashion show by the fashion department, which was themed After Earth, and
saw students explore their own vision of our next world. During this prestigious event, international partners are invited to showcase
their work. This year fashion schools from countries such as Australia,
The BIFT team was stunned with the innovative designs of the students as Switzerland and Spain attended.
well as the quality of the ranges – and subsequently invited DUT to showcase
at the China Graduate Fashion Week from the 15 – 20 May 2017 in Beijing. BIFT is one of the top 50 Fashion Education institutions globally and is
recognised for its interdisciplinary approach to Fashion education. Dr Fu
The DUT students showcased their 2016 collection but it was restyled for from the DUT CI facilitated a visit by the BIFT delegation in 2016 to coincide
the Beijing show. with the annual DUT Fashion Show.
Fashion’s Sunthra Moodley said, “It was very well received and I can
confidently say that our students’ designs are on par with the Chinese
12 www.facebook.com/dutartsanddesignDurban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine | Issue Two 2017 13
News
Another DUT Journalism student
off to America
SHANICE PILLAY
Modest and inspiring, these are the two words that best describe 21- paper which was R3.40, to be left with 10c in my pocket. I would do this
year -old Durban University of Technology’s Journalism student Eugene every week just to read the paper and grow my knowledge in sport,” said
Sandile Lukhozi. Lukhozi.
The DUT student is one of 20 students in the country to receive a Journalism lecturer, Deseni Sooben said she is pleased with Lukhozi’s
scholarship to Scottsdale Community College in Arizona, United States achievement.
of America.
“I have got to know Sandile in the second year of his studying while
“I feel anxious and scared at the same time,” said Lukhozi. “I never thought teaching Media Studies II. He was a very shy and quiet individual, however,
someone like me would be going to America. there was a lot going on in his mind and he always topped the class in my
subject. I’m very pleased with Sandile and his family and I think sheer hard
The shy Lukhozi was born in Donnybrook, in uMzimkhulu and grew up in work pays off and hopefully he will come back and inspire other students,”
Bothas Hill, KwaNyuswa. Coming from a traditional Zulu home, Lukhozi is said Sooben.
the middle child and has always kept to himself.
Lukhozi will depart South Africa in July. When asked about what he would
He holds his previous school in high esteem for the contribution his miss the most, he said his little sister.
teachers made in his life.
“When I attended KwaNtebeni Comprehensive High School
that is where I grew as a person, because I’ve always been very
quiet and I still am but that’s when I developed my social life
and got involved in various sports,” he said.
He developed his love for journalism because of his father.
Newspapers became a tradition in his home especially the
Sunday Times. He was confused by his father’s choice of paper
because it was in English. However, little did he know that his
father’s influence would shape his career.
“When I was in grade 9 I used to buy a newspaper called
Soccer Laduma. I would use my allowance of R3.50 to buy the
Gomolemo Mohapi, Londiwe Khoza and Sandile Lukhozi.
14 www.facebook.com/dutartsanddesignNews
Drama students perform for Vice Premier
of China
SOFTCOPY REPORTER
China’s Vice-Premier, Madam Liu Yandong was treated to an outstanding show composed short phrases of original refrain to include with the short snippets
by Drama and Production Studies students who performed for her during her taken from Living Legend Welcome Msomi’s famous work UMabatha. The praise
visit to Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently. poem was written by Genbia Hyla and translated into isiZulu by Siza Mthembu.
Hosted by DUT and the DUT Confucius Institute, Madam Liu Yandong’s visit was Lutge said watching her students perform at this prestigious welcome
meant to promote partnerships between South African and Chinese people. for distinguished guests, an eminent Beijing delegation, and a prominent
international Vice Premiere was a very great honour for her Department.
During her reception ceremony, Madam Liu handed over equipment for
language laboratories at DUT and vouchers for DUT students to use to travel to “I thank Dr Fu and the International Office for their continued faith in our
China for the annual summer camp. Department. I felt humbled by the magnitude of this event and the request.
The short pieces for this very special occasion left our entire Department feeling
About 26 first, second, and third year Drama and Production Studies students very proud of all the students that participated and represented DUT so well. The
who were clad in colourful outfits performed a series of songs and choreography performance for the Vice Premiere showcased Drama and Production Students
that showcased the best the Drama Department has to offer. as well as students from different faculties performing in Mandarin under coach,
Heng Wang. These international exchanges confirm how significant cultural
Drama’s Prof Deborah Lutge who served as overall director, suggested the exchange can be in spreading the spirit of Ubuntu.”
concept, the visual design elements, and the indigenous musical style of the
presentation. Welcoming the delegation from China and the South African team which was
lead by Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mduduzi Manana, as
“The students worked on an extensive choreography by Mdu Mtshali as well well as the MEC for Education in KwaZulu-Natal, Mthandeni Dlungwana; DUT
as selecting, under Richardt Wissink’s guidance, the musical numbers to be Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Thandwa Mthembu said the visit was one of
included from UMabatha,” said Lutge. the most prestigious and crucial events to occur at DUT. The university enjoys
several partnerships with Chinese universities.
She also cut and remoulded the choreography and song and tightened the
arrangements compiled by final year student Celestia Mpanza, who additionally
Drama students entertaining China’s Vice-Premier, Madam Liu Yandong.
Durban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine | Issue Two 2017 15News
Molière’s ‘Tartuffe’ at the
Courtyard theatre
SOFTCOPY REPORTER
The cast of the masterpiece Tartuffe received a well-deserved standing had when in 2012 she created The Miser (also by Molière) for the French-
ovation at the end of their outstanding performance at DUT’s Courtyard SA seasons.
theatre recently.
“I was then, based on the success of The Miser, and I chose Tartuffe, which
Directed by actress, writer and theatre director, Sylvaine Strike the play is arguably Molière’s most popular work as it resonates so deeply with us
which is one of the “French Shakespeare’s” most famous works was first today.” However, the journey from there to the play reaching the stage
performed in 1664. in different cities across the country took a while to come together as
funding, sponsorships and logistics were worked out,” she said.
Neil McCarthy plays Orgon, with Khutjo Green as his wife, Elmire. Craig
Morris takes on the title role of Tartuffe, and theatre stalwart Vanessa Drama’s Prof Deborah Lutge said Molière is not frequently performed in
Cooke plays the housekeeper, Dorine. Other cast members include Anele Durban so it was a splendid treat when FoAD’s Executive Dean Dr Smith
Situlweni, Vuyelwa Maluleke, Adrian Alper, William Harding and Camilla liaised with Alliance Française Durban to secure the world class production.
Waldman.
“Students at the Department of Drama and Production Studies were
The 17th century play, which explores the way in which people are easily given the additional delight of a physical workshop facilitated by Sylvaine
manipulated by symbols of power and honeyed words, left the audience Strike who studied at the internationally renowned Le Coq Academy. The
in stitches as the Orgon’s family tries to expose Tartuffe as a con artist. excellent finesse of the performances, the slick direction of the rhymed
verse, and the ability to watch superior national character transformation
Strike was commissioned by IFAS through industry exchanges such as these, always prove invaluable for
(French Institute of SA) and the students and provide treasured lessons to carry out into the world beyond
Alliance Française SA to stage another university,” Lutge said.
Molière in 2017 based the success she
The cast of Tartuffe had the audience in stitches during their show.
16 www.facebook.com/dutartsanddesignNews
Zungu and Ngema awarded scholarship to
Limon Dance Company in New York
SOFTCOPY REPORTER
Drama graduates, Njabulo Innocent Zungu and Nqubeko Ngema have Academy. Their training has included basic ballet, modern contemporary
been awarded a nine-month Professional Development and Training dance, Zulu traditional dance and hip-hop.
Internship/Scholarship to study at the New York-based Limon Dance
Company. Apart from having performed in professional theatre productions in
venues such as the Playhouse, Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre, Stable Theatre,
The tremendously talented Durban dancers are appealing to anyone Catalina Theatre, Courtyard Theatre, City Hall; International Conventional
who can assist financially so that they can get to New York and make Centre (ICC), and State Theatre, they have participated in numerous
Durban proud. festivals including JOMBA!, Dance Umbrella, Grahamstown National
Arts Festival, the Dance Drama festival and the DUT Digital Festival. They
“We are diligent, humble, focused and passionate dancers who come from acted, sang and danced in Evita The Musical presented by DUT.
places where stars never shine but with positive minds and discipline, we
believe the future of dance shines. By using our dancing talent in Modern They have also appeared in community talent shows, fashion shows,
Contemporary Dance, we would like to explore our chances in the field exhibitions at arts galleries, small dance performances, musical shows,
of dance and gain experience on working with different artists,” they add. and South African awards events (NACMA Awards, Crown Awards
They attended the Durban University of Technology (DUT) from 2013 to and Trumpet Africa Gospel Music Awards). These often required their
2015 and graduated with National Diplomas in Drama and performance choreography skills.
studies specialising in Dance and Theatre in Education (TIE)
These energetic, passionate, focused and forward-thinking young men
They also trained with the acclaimed Flatfoot Dance Company and have also been doing Training Dance programmes in high schools.
Ngema has worked with the Playhouse Company’s Phakama Dance
Sponsorship is required to make this tremen-
dous opportunity possible and anyone who
can help is invited to make deposits into the
following account:
Account Name: The Durban University of
Technology
Account No: 050007068
Account type: Business Current Account
Branch: Kingsmead
Branch Code: 040026
Branch code (electronic payments): 051001
Reference No: F051 – Ngema Zungu Fund
Drama graduates, Njabulo Innocent Zungu and Nqubeko Ngema who are renowned for their dancing skills.
Durban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine | Issue Two 2017 17News
TIP and LP students at DUT
Africa Day celebration
STHABILE GWALA
Translation & Interpreting Practice together with Language Practice
students enthralled spectators with their rendition of traditional
songs and regalia at DUT’s International Education and Partnerships
Office Africa day celebration.
The celebrations, which formed part of the continent’s
commemoration of the foundation of the Organisation of African
Unity took place at the university’s Art Gallery.
The event kicked off with students performing classic traditional
songs like iNgwe eMabalala, Bazovuma and Dali wami, which
are popularly sung at traditional ceremonies like weddings and
Umemulo (Zulu coming of age ceremony for women) and the
annual reed dance attended by Zulu maidens.
This year’s theme was ‘Harnessing the Demographic Dividend
through investments in Youth.’
Director of the International Education and Partnerships Office,
Dr Lavern Samuels said Africa Day should be celebrated everyday “Africa Day is a special day for our continent and it allows us to celebrate our
through exhibitions and seminars. diversity, our potential and the future of our continent,” said Samuels.
Founder of the Institute of Africology, Yaa Ashantewaa Archer-Ngidi highlighted
the significance of social cohesion, unity and inclusivity and the importance of
holding Africa in the highest regard.
Intercultural Studies lecturer, Priscilla Mncube shared her personal views on why
it is important to celebrate Africa Day saying it helps to remind her of who she is,
where she comes from and how far we have come as Africans.
“I am honored to be here today and to speak about what makes me African. We
need to ensure that we are portraying the right culture to people, it is that that
they will take to heart,” she said.
Africa Day is the annual commemoration of the 1963 founding of the Organization
of African Unity (OAU), now known as the African Union.
TIP and LP students looked beautiful in their traditional regalia as they
entertained at DUT ‘s Africa Day celebration.
18 www.facebook.com/dutartsanddesignNews
FoAD at DUT
Open Week
ANDILE DUBE and NOXOLO MEMELA
Popularly known for its long history of hosting some the university’s major During the event the learners were exposed to the university’s
ceremonies such as graduation, the Sports Centre was transformed into support departments such as Student Counselling, Financial Aid and
an exhibition centre for DUT open Week where prospective students Scholarships, Student Housing as well as the Central Applications office.
had flocked to see what was on offer.
Alex Mdletshe, Manager at Student Recruitment said the 2017 Open
The Faculty of Arts and Design (FoAD) had a strong presence at the four- Week received a positive response. “The response to our Open Week
day showcase which was attended by an estimated 11 144 learners from was positive; pupils from various schools came in large numbers. On
over 123 high schools from across the KwaZulu-Natal province. Saturday where we invited the general public we also received a good
turnout,” he said.
FoAD’S departments and programmes, Drama and Production Studies,
Fashion and Textiles, Language Practice, Translation and Interpreting, Some of the schools that attended the University Open week were
Journalism, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Photography, Fine Arts, Grosvenor Boys’ High, Comtech High School, Isinyabusi Technical
School of Education and Video Technology were a hit with the learners. School, Seatides Secondary, Dr AD Lazarus Secondary School, Esizibeni
Comprehensive High School, to name but a few.
DUT Open Week is an annual calendar event which is one of the most
important activities undertaken by Student Recruitment Department
and the entire university community.
All internal stakeholders lead this mass Graphic Design’s B.Tech student interacts with prospective students at DUT Open Week.
marketing initiative which targets all
high/secondary schools and parents
of scholars within the province.
The Open Week also included special
events such as the Science of Fun,
Chinese Martial Arts by the DUT
Confucius Institute, a performance
by the Translation and Interpretation
Department and performances
by students from the Drama and
Production Studies department.
Durban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine | Issue Two 2017 19Graduation
Double celebration for
Fashion twins
ANDILE DUBE and NOXOLO MEMELA
It was a double celebration for the Sewnath family when twins Nishthi Her sister, Nivadni said: “My designing career had started when I was interested in
and Nivadni graduated with a National Diploma in Fashion and Textile at a rt and from there onwards I started sketching and designing fashion.”
the DUT Faculty of Arts and Design’s graduation recently.
They are currently working on the ranges they will be showcasing at the Durban
The twins are over the moon about sharing the graduation stage, Nishthi Fashion Fair which takes place in August.
said: “We are very excited about starting our future together as that was
what we planned all along.” Nivadni jumped in saying, “I have felt that it “We have showcased at this year’s SA Fashion week. We are also working in the
was a very good experience and together we had a very strong support fashion industry to gain more experience. There are also plans to study for our
system.” B.Tech next year and then Masters,” added Nivadni.
The graduates fell in love with fashion from a very young age and were The Sewnath twins are two of the 3 209 female students that graduated in one
determined to get into the fashion industry once they grew up. of the Durban graduation ceremonies that were held at the Fred Crookes Sports
Centre which was transformed into a magnificent hall that reflected jubilation.
“As a child, I loved everything to do with styling and creating fashion
sketches. This is when I knew that I wanted to do a career in fashion and The 2017 autumn graduation numbers increased when compared to last year. A
which I will enjoy doing,” Nishthi said. total number of 3209 female students graduated this autumn whilst 2 582 males
received their qualifications.
In total, 38 women graduated with Masters degrees, whilst 30 men received their
Masters degrees.
Twins Nishthi and Nivadni Sewnath graduated with National Diplomas in
from Durban University of Technology.
20 www.facebook.com/dutartsanddesignSeminars
Second annual Dean’s Seminar highlights
challenges facing deaf people
BONGANI GEMA
Deaf people are often denied access to higher education because of various “The fact that Lesotho deliberately left out the Lesotho sign language in the
institutions’ inability to provide lectures in sign languages. educational policy has denied us the opportunity to have teachers who can be
equipped with the language and consequently the deaf are denied the right
Speaking at the second annual Faculty of Arts and Design Dean’s Seminar, to be taught in their mother tongue,” said Matlosa.
which was aimed at tackling issues faced by deaf people, Deaf Federation of
South Africa’s Odette Swift said South Africa still has a long way to go in making She added that this was also driven by a lack of awareness of the country’s most
sure that deaf people have access to higher education. vulnerable citizens. She said to date there are only two functioning schools for
the deaf in Lesotho but above the fact that the parents are not aware they exist,
Swift said during the drafting of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa there was also the issue of affordability and inefficacy.
there was no one representing deaf people and as a result, sign language was
not recognised as an official language. “Deaf schools are expensive so some parents who are aware of them cannot
afford to send their children. Above that, some recruit teachers are only
She went on to say that, very few universities in the country offer sign language qualified in teaching and not skilled in sign languages, so sign language is not
mentioning Durban University of Technology, University of the Witwatersrand, even a requirement. You can’t even depend on interpretation because for that
North-West University, and the University of the Free Sate. you get unemployed applicants who are not interested in what you’re doing
but just want something to be busy on,” she said.
National University of Lesotho’s Dr Litsepiso Matlosa pointed out that
universities not being able to cater for deaf students was a violation
of a constitutional right.
Matlosa has been involved in educational policy and its implication
for the deaf in Lesotho since the late 90s and she said the two
countries, Lesotho and South Africa have much to learn from
each other as they both try to navigate this problem of education
inaccessibility for the deaf.
Nqobile Sawula, Dr Maleshoane Rapeane-Mathonsi, Odette Swift, Dr René Smith,
Dr Listepiso Matlosa.
Durban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine | Issue One 2017 21Seminars
Blecher facilitates FoAD’s
Design Thinking workshop
ANDILE DUBE
Social entrepreneur Dr Taddy Blecher recently led a critical design-thinking He is a pioneer of the free tertiary education movement in South Africa,
workshop with staff and students of the Faculty of Art and Design (FoAD). helping create six free access institutions of higher learning.
The workshop was aimed at encouraging staff and students to start He co-founded the Branson School of Entrepreneurship with Sir Richard
thinking of other innovative ways to problem solving and be more student Branson, and has raised over R500 million in cash, property and equity
centred. to support free access to post-secondary school education. As a result,
over 17,050 unemployed South Africans have been educated, found
Blecher who is renowned for being a champion of free education employment and moved from poverty to the middle-class. These formerly
described design thinking as a way of finding solutions that work and unemployed youth now have combined salaries in excess of R1 Billion
that understand the different stakeholder groupings that you are trying Rand p.a. and expected life-time earnings of R27.2 billion. Over 600,000
to work with. young South Africans in schools have been reached with one-week
education and life-skills training courses.
“Design thinking offers a structured framework, understanding and
perusing innovation in ways that contribute organic growth and add real
value to your customers.
The key thing to understand is who are your customers and, how do you
Dr Taddy Blecher with FoAD staff and students at the Design Thinking Workshop.
think from their perspective and how do you
test methodologies and solutions to help
those costumers in a way that is continually
interactive to become better and better,”
Blecher said.
The team broke into groups where they
discussed challenges faced by staff and
students in the Faculty and suggested ways
in which these could be handled.
Blecher is CEO of the Maharishi Institute and
the Imvula Empowerment Trust, CEO of the
Community and Individual Development
Association; and former Chairperson of
the SA National Government task team on
Entrepreneurship, Education, & Job Creation.
22 www.facebook.com/dutartsanddesignOur Alumni
Bopape wins Future Generation
Art Prize
SOFTCOPY REPORTER
Former Fine Art Graduate, Dineo Sashee Popape recently made waves by Retired Fine Art lecturer, Dr John Roome, congratulated his former student
being the first South African to win the Future Generation Art Prize, walking saying “Right from the beginning she struck me as an exceptionally
away with a $100,000 cash award at the Venice Biennale. talented student. Not only was she gifted from a technical point of view,
but she was clearly someone who could think out of the box. This rare
Bopape who studied at the then Durban Institute of Technology, later called combination of technical ability and conceptual daring is what made her
Durban University of Technology, was chosen out of over 4000 applicants a brilliant artist.”
from 138 countries (later whittled down to 20 by an international jury) for
work that is both highly personal, and political. Bopape is initially going to use the prize to set up a studio in Johannesburg,
but more importantly “to allow things to simmer. I’d like to have three
Her installation, was on show at the Venetian Palazzo Contarini Polignac months when I don’t read a single email. When I get to see the relationship
until 13 August 2017. The installation fills the behind of the Venetian between all the different works I’ve made. When I get bored, even,” she said.
Palazzo Contarini Polignac’s exquisite 15th-century stone and marble
façade with several earthen plinths which she had embellished with small The Future Generation Art
ceramic totems, herbs, gold leaf, feathers and crystals. On the balcony Prize is aimed at emer-
outside, she’d placed further earthen works that seemed to be trying to ging artists and is run by Fine Art graduate Dineo Seshee Bopape.
escape from the palazzo and out into the city. the Pinchuk Art Centre,
which was established by
The 35-year-old’s installation emerges from her questions about women’s Ukrainian billionaire Victor
rights and identities (there are uterus-like vessels among the totems, and Pinchuk in Kiev in 2006.
the herbs are ones for menstrual conditions), and the post-colonial politics
of her native South Africa. But she’s also indebted to the land art of the
1960s and 1970s, recalled in her choice of materials and preference to work
straight onto the floor.
Bopape, who was born in Limpopo, creates her installations from the local Bopape’s installation, which
is currently on show at the
soil, wherever she is working. Venetian Palazzo Contarini
Polignac until 13 August 2017.
In Venice, the soil is a product created from
ground-down fibre – a something-from-
nothing like Venice itself. For Bopape, a
black South African, the earth is also the
story of territory taken away by the white
settlers, a situation which is not much nearer
resolution, she says, even 20 years after
Mandela’s presidency.
Durban University of Technology | Faculty of Arts & Design Magazine | Issue Two 2017 23You can also read
