DUT chemistry students to compete in Provincial World Skills South Africa Competition

Ten students from Durban of Technology’s (DUT) Department of Chemistry will be competing in the Provincial World Skills South Africa Competition from Monday, September 15, to September 19.

The DUT Faculty of Applied Sciences announced that 10 of its students will compete in this year’s Provincial World Skills South Africa Competition, which will see the members showcasing their technical and vocational skills against other teams.

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The 10 students, Sindisiwe Ndlozi, Andisiwe Mangena, Fanelesibonge Mncwango, Phumelele Mpanza, Siyabonga Komane, Siphesihle Luthuli, Nthabiseng Letsoalo, Asandile Mkhize, Lindokuhle Mpungose and Siphelele Dlamini, will be taking part in the Chemical Laboratory Technology category.

“The top performers will then advance to the national competition, with the ultimate goal of representing South Africa at WorldSkills International in Shanghai, China, from September 22-27, 2026,” said DUT’s senior director of corporate affairs, Alan Khan.

According to senior technician in the Department of Chemistry at DUT, Cleopatra Tebogo Gwamanda, this national initiative, led by the Department of Higher Education and Training under the banner of WorldSkills South Africa, is crucial for addressing the country’s critical skills shortage in chemical technology.

“This milestone reflects the dedication of both students and staff and highlights the practical training that prepares our adaptive graduates for industry and global competitiveness,” Gwamanda said.

She added that students will be judged on their technique in handling equipment, such as pipetting, housekeeping of the station, their organisation and time management and report writing skills.

They will also be judged on their professionalism, discipline and attention to detail.

The students who made the shortlist shared their excitement on qualifying for the competition and representing their university.

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For Siyabonga Komane, he cannot quite place the words for how excited he is.

“For me, this is not just about competing, it’s about challenging myself, learning from others and being part of something bigger than myself. It is the chance to showcase my skills and push beyond my comfort zone,” Komane said.

Sindisiwe Ndlozi shared these sentiments, saying that this achievement proved that her work had paid off.

Professor Suren Singh, executive Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, extended his congratulations to the team.

“This achievement reflects our shared dedication to producing adaptive graduates who are not only academically proficient but are also equipped with the skills to excel in their careers and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economy,” Singh said.

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