Dear Alumni and Friends, It is with mixed emotions that I write to you in our latest edition of DUT Connect during these most challenging times. We would have wished to present this issue much earlier in the year but the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted on our operations as well, and hence this midyear first edition for 2020. We have all been affected by the pandemic in one way or another, some more severely than others. We have witnessed moments of despair and concern as the numbers of infected people, globally and locally, have grown exponentially, while at the same time, we have witnessed moments of hope, compassion and courage as some chose to roll up their sleeves and make a difference in the lives of those most vulnerable among us during this time. We salute the countless men and women in the health and medical profession who have been working on the frontlines, risking their own lives, to ensure that those in need continue to receive medical care.We also salute those who have risen to the occasion by mobilising their families, friends and communities to lend a hand to those who have been hardest hit financially as a result of the pandemic by providing much-needed food, blankets and clothes. These are the stories that we wish to hear more of, for the true character of a nation is revealed in times of crisis. Fortuitously, in our planning for this edition, before the advent of the pandemic, we had opted to focus on health and wellness. Certainly, a theme befitting our current circumstances, given the fact that even with COVID-19, the healthier you are, the better your chances of making a full recovery, as we have seen with the percentage of recoveries far outstripping the percentage of COVID19-related deaths. This edition, therefore, features a number of our alumni, of whom we are proud, working broadly in the health sector, including a DUT academic from the Health Sciences Faculty on her ground-breaking research on the value of cooperation between radiation oncologists and traditional healers in the treatment of cancer. This edition is loaded with helpful tips on how to take care of yourself holistically and even the environment that supports and sustains our existence. It also contains some uplifting stories of ‘real-life heroes’ who sacrifice a lot to improve the lives of others.
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To our recent graduates and new alumni who could not experience the joy of walking across the stage before a packed hall amid deafening applause in celebration of their hard-earned achievements due to the lockdown, which made a traditional graduation ceremony impossible, we say: Do not be disheartened. What is most important is that you have climbed a mountain and have reached the summit, so congratulations on your achievement and welcome to the DUT Alumni family! We trust that the quality education you have received will enable you to reach greater heights as you awaken to the fact that, to paraphrase a quote by the late great Nelson Mandela, when you reach the top of a hill, you realise that there are many more hills to climb. But take some time to enjoy the view and celebrate your achievements and then continue on your journey, as this moment marks the beginning of the rest of your life. As usual, we would like to express our deepest appreciation to our donors listed below. Without donor support, many students would face the reality of financial exclusion and the shattered dreams of not achieving that all-important qualification. Many good programmes that enrich the academic experiences of our students would also grind to a halt, therefore, our donors play a significant role in ensuring that we continue to offer an excellent education. I also wish to take this moment to appeal to you to consider supporting the DUT COVID-19 Solidarity Fund, which we have established to provide care and support to those in the DUT community who have been adversely affected by the pandemic. To donate, simply visit our website, www.dut.ac.za and click on the DUT Solidarity Fund link. We trust that you will continue to observe all protocols and safety measures to ensure that you protect yourselves and others from the spread of the coronavirus. Be safe, be well and stay blessed. Zwakele Ngubane Director: Advancement and Alumni Relations Tel: +27 31 373 3020 | Email: zwakelen@dut.ac.za
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contents Message from the Vice-Chancellor
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Fostering Cooperation in the Fight Against Cancer – Dr Busisiwe Nkosi
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Honing in on Sexual Health in Africa – Dr Padaruth Ramlachan Broadcasting the Benefits of Natural Health – Dr Jabulile Ngobese-Ngubane
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Driving Positive Change in South African Communities 13 – Darian Smith Pursuing his People-rescuing Passion – Travis Trower
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Saving Lives by God's Grace – Glen Preston
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Safeguarding Durban's Environment and People – Preshod Ramlal
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Your Lifestyle Management during COVID-19 – Ms Samantha Rajcoomar, Manager: Employee Wellness Programme
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Ensuring Free Healthcare for DUT Students
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The 2019 President's Cup Golf Day
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Publisher: Editorial Leader: Editorial, DUT: Administration Support: Contributors: Editorial, Artworks: Layout and Design:
Durban University of Technology Zwakele Ngubane Nishie Govender Pretty Zulu, DUT Advancement and Alumni Relations Department Soori Wardthen and Samantha Rajcoomar Gaylene Jablonkay Artworks | www.artworks.co.za
Disclaimer: This magazine is published in good faith and every effort has been made to ensure that the information was true and correct at the time of going to print.
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MESSAGE FROM THE VICE-CHANCELLOR
Health and Wellness
My last communication with our alumni, donors and friends using this platform was in the second semester of 2019. We would have liked to have communicated with you earlier than now, but I am sure you understand how badly lives have been turned upside down by the outbreak of COVID-19.
T
his message follows two editions of Iminingo between April and June dealing not only with the difficulties COVID-19 has created, but also important lessons from this ostensibly debilitating experience. I am assuming that all our internal stakeholders, including alumni, regularly receive university communiques. For this reason, I will not repeat what I have said in the two editions of Iminingo I am referring to. It’s safe to say that our Alumni Office always facilitates engagement with you. As you would have noticed, I also deal with other important institutional affairs and developments. Be that as it may, this piece of communication is about extending my heartfelt greetings and well wishes to all our alumni, donors and friends of DUT. I trust that you have managed to remain unscathed by the global pandemic that has besieged us and, in fact, continues to do so more virulently now. Please continue to look after yourselves and encourage all your loved ones to be careful, too. The virus can be fatal. Serendipitously, the theme of this edition is Health and Wellness, an apt topic during these physically and psychologically testing times. The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly challenged us in many ways. We have read about how being in great physical health can significantly improve our chances of recovery if infected. Fortunately, both national and global statistics demonstrate significantly higher recovery rates. The lockdown and the restrictions that accompany it have been challenging
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to many from a psychological perspective as well. Social isolation, especially for those living alone, is much more difficult, but we trust that you have had access to various technological devices that connect you with loved ones. The consequences of the pandemic have been far-reaching. Of great concern, even from the onset, was the stress it would bring to bear on the health system in terms of availability of beds, ventilators and personal protective equipment (PPEs). I must also use this opportunity to express our appreciation to all those alumni and friends of DUT working hard on the frontlines of the health profession to assist those who have been infected and affected by the virus. Unfortunately, we must also acknowledge that the pandemic has drawn the great divide between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have-nots’ and the severe societal inequalities that exist into sharp focus.The ‘haves’ are able to ride the proverbial coronavirus wave with relative ease with access to various resources, making the social distancing and lockdown restrictions more bearable. Many households experience partial or complete loss of income as a result of the restrictions, leaving many vulnerable and dependent on handouts and the generosity of others. This divide is a result of both our history of separate development and the post-apartheid mistakes we have made as a nation. It is against this backdrop that our Envision 2030, the new strategy we launched in February this year, is very deliberate about DUT positively impacting the lives and livelihoods of our people through its socially aware,
FOR Alumni and Friends OF THE DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
creative and innovative people. Whereas many a times, universities of technology tend to tailor-make their outputs to business and industry, perhaps for excusable reasons, our new strategy demands that the outcomes and impacts must be witnessed in the broader society. COVID-19 has also forced us to innovate how we conduct our graduation ceremonies. I, thus, congratulate all those trailblazing graduates who experienced our first virtual graduation ceremony on 10 June 2020. This is a first for DUT and certainly for many other universities. I understand that the joy of physically walking across the stage to receive your qualification with your family cheering you on is priceless and is what you have been looking forward to. We have had to accept that the implications of the current circumstances are such that we cannot congregate physically for such celebrations. We are grateful though, that technology at least affords us the opportunity to still hold the ceremony, albeit virtually. While we note that they graduated under unusual circumstances, it is our sincere hope that this year’s graduates will also be unusual, that they will use the very experience of changed circumstances to be adaptive and agile in fast-changing circumstances, and reinvent themselves in order to sustain their relevance and currency in this harsh world. In keeping with our values of being compassionate, as enshrined in our Envision 2030, we have also set up the DUT COVID-19 Solidarity Fund: Committed, Compassionate, to play our part in contributing towards assisting those in our community who have been adversely affected by the pandemic. The focus of this fund will be on providing care and support to those in need. A number of our management team from peromnes levels1-5 have committed a percentage of their salaries towards the fund for a period of three months from May 2020. The University has taken responsibility through a readjusted University budget towards detection and prevention. Among others, this will take care of the provision of PPEs and other preventative and protective measures, including deep cleaning, sanitisation and disinfection. Given what Management and the University have done, I would like to encourage anyone who is in a position to make a contribution to this important initiative to visit our website (www.dut.ac.za) and click on the DUT SOLIDARITY FUND link, which will take you to our
donation page where you will find various convenient donation options. DUT has continued with some of its operations remotely (although limited to some extent) during the lockdown, even under restriction Level 5. Of course, the major aspect of our operations, namely, teaching and learning, was severely disrupted since students had to be at home. We have had to make some major adjustments as we planned and prepared to provide a more comprehensive multi-modal/blended learning format for our students. Hitherto, online teaching had constituted but a nominal aspect of our teaching and learning modality. This radical change has brought with it a number of challenges since many of our students do not have the connectivity, devices and data required to access online learning. We welcome the interventions and support by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) in assisting students they support by allowing for the purchase of devices and data using the allowances they receive. We do still, however, have to consider those students who are not funded by NSFAS and yet are unable to afford devices and data – ‘the missing middle’.To this end, the University has been able to secure a deal with mobile network operators for data provision (for both staff and students) and the DUT COVID-19 Solidarity Fund may also assist some students with devices, among other needs. We are in the process of negotiating with banks for ‘soft loans’ or sponsors for such students and their families. It has been a challenging time for us all, but we hope that we will come out stronger and wiser as a nation. The pandemic has compelled us to be creative and innovative in how we do business and live life in general. If nothing else, the pandemic has demonstrated the importance of being adaptive to change, which is one of our key strategic objectives in Envision 2030. We have also initiated a process, led by my office, which will help us to prepare for the new unknown as it continues to unravel. As the lockdown restriction levels begin to ease and life seems to be returning to some form of ‘new normal’, we trust that you will continue to observe good and responsible practices so as to protect yourselves and others from the spread of the virus. Stay safe and best wishes. PROF THANDWA ZIZWE MTHEMBU DUT Vice-Chancellor & Principal
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Fostering cooperation in the fight against cancer Dr Busisiwe Pauline Nkosi (57), dynamic Senior Lecturer and Head of the Radiotherapy Department at DUT, performed ground-breaking research on fostering cooperation between traditional healers and radiation oncologists in cancer treatment in KZN for her PhD, and lives to educate rural communities on cancer prevention.
“I
am ambitious and dedicated to building my career by doing something I like, which is finding solutions to problems through research and distributing the knowledge to the world through publications and presenting at national and international conferences.� She has two masters: an MBL from the UNISA School of Business Leadership and an MTech: Radiography (Therapy)
from the University of Johannesburg (UJ). Her other qualifications include a BTech: Radiography (Therapy) and a National Higher Diploma: Radiography (Therapy) from DUT and a National Diploma: Radiography (Diagnostic) from UJ. She also earned certificates in Strategic Implementation of ICT in Integrated Education from Wits University, Strengthening Postgrad Supervision from Rhodes University, Hospital Management from Wits University, and the South African Institute of Management (SAIM) Programme in Business Management from UNISA. Nkosi worked for 28 years in the Gauteng Department of Health: as Chief Radiographer in Radiotherapy, Head of Department in Radiography and Assistant Director.
Finish what you have started, even if you feel it is not worth it, because who knows? You may need it tomorrow.
Dr busisiwe Nkosi DUT BTech Radiography (Therapy) and National Higher Diploma: Radiography (Therapy) graduate DUTConnect // 4
FOR Alumni and Friends OF THE DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
Working diligently, persistently and in a focused manner yields better rewards for your career.
Having transitioned to academia in 2013, she finally graduated with a PhD in Health Sciences from DUT in 2017, which she cites as her greatest career success. “I obtained it in two-and-a-half years despite having three mild strokes and seven modules to teach with no experience,” said Nkosi. Her research focus aimed to find a solution for patients who were defaulting on cancer treatment as a result of consulting with medical doctors and traditional healers simultaneously. “These years were challenging because as a married woman with three children to raise and a permanent job, it was cumbersome to devote time to all my responsibilities,” remembered Nkosi. “At one stage, I had to cancel my studies to raise one of my children.” She has been a senior lecturer at DUT, an internal examiner for master’s dissertations, a reviewer of proposals and a supervisor for six undergraduate, four master’s and six doctoral students. “I like the friendly environment where the relationships among staff members and with students makes me look forward to the next day.” She has now been appointed Head of Department in Radiography and assumed the position from 1 July this year. In 2018, Nkosi published four papers – all in international journals – and in 2019 she published two in international
journals and five are currently under review. She currently holds a postdoctoral fellowship grant, which expires in 2022. These incredible achievements have sprung from an only child of a single, struggling domestic worker. Nkosi was raised by her uncle and aunt as their own until the age of 13 in Standerton with her four cousins. “At the age of 14, through a distant relative, I came to know that my mother, whom I called ‘aunt’, was my biological mother. She had been working in Johannesburg and only visited us every year in December.” Unfortunately, Nkosi was unable to stay with her mom but was awarded a bursary to study Grade 11 and 12 at a boarding school in Pretoria.“My mother never encouraged me to study but I saw her sometimes borrowing money from people to pay for my schooling. Seeing her struggle motivated me to study so I could build a home for us and a better life for her.” After completing matric, Nkosi was accepted to study a BCom Accounting degree but could not obtain a bursary. In the same year, she worked as a filing clerk to save money for university. After four months, she left her job to study part-time for a National Diploma in Diagnostic Radiography while working as a therapy radiographer. “This was the best decision I ever made because it meant working towards a qualification while earning a salary.
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One year later at the age of 22, I was able to buy a house for my mother as well as my first home.”
In her leisure time, Nkosi, who is currently single, a
Her workdays are varied, consisting of lecturing in Radiotherapy, setting up exams, marking examination scripts, doing administrative work, supervising postgraduate students, moderating scripts within the department, assessing students at hospitals, writing research articles for journals and presenting at conferences.
grandmother of three, exercises regularly and is involved
mom to Sifiso (36), Mbulelo (26) and Yoliswa (20) and in community engagement where she and a group of Radiography students teach the KwaMkhizwana community about the warning signs of cancer. She intends passing this knowledge on to traditional health practitioners as they interact with a larger community. She also financially supports students anonymously.
YOU AND THE BIG ‘C’ What can you do to recognise the warning signs of cancer? To recognise the warning signs of cancer, people should be on the lookout for the following acronym ‘CAUTION’, namely: Change in bowel or bladder habits A sore that does not heal Unusual bleeding or discharge Thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere Indigestion or difficulty in swallowing Obvious change in a wart or mole Nagging cough or hoarseness
How do you prevent cancer? • • • • • • •
Do not smoke Protect your skin from the sun Eat a healthy diet Maintain a healthy weight and be physically active Practice safer sex and avoid risky behaviour Get immunised (e.g. get HPV and hepatitis vaccines) Know your family medical history and get regular cancer screening
What do you do if you are diagnosed with cancer? Discuss the various treatment options such as radiation treatment, surgery, chemotherapy and traditional medicine with your doctor, thereafter start treatment as soon as possible.
How can traditional healers and medical practitioners work together to fight cancer? By allowing patients to make decisions regarding which doctor or health practitioner should treat them. When patients seek treatment with the other doctor or practitioner, they should be referred and guided in their referral.
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FOR Alumni and Friends OF THE DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
HONING IN ON SEXUAL HEALTH IN AFRICA Although Dr Padaruth Ramlachan (66) began his work life as a humble bricklayer, he now lists the KwaZuluNatal Doctors’ Healthcare Coalition Lifetime Achievement Award – international recognition for work on sexual medicine – and being elected President of the African Society for Sexual Medicine as the crowning achievements of his long and illustrious medical career.
D
UT bestowed the Silver Tusk Award on him in 2009 for bringing recognition to the University and he also received the Fellow of the European Committee of Sexual Medicine (FECSM) from the European Union of Medical Specialists in 2012. “These accolades have allowed my colleagues and I the opportunity to spread sexual medicine throughout Africa, which is a work in progress even now.” He has been the Chairman of the Durban Doctors’ Guild since 2000 and also serves as the Chairman of the Pharmaceutical and Therapeutics Committee of the KZN Doctors Healthcare Coalition (KZN DHC). He has served on numerous Boards, is the past Chairperson of the Southern African
As a medical professional, your greatest gift to your patients is to care, as even the widest of knowledge will never replace caring.
Dr Padaruth ramlachan DUT Higher Technician's Certificate T4 graduate
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Sexual Health Association (SASHA KZN) and is the past President of the African Society for Sexual Medicine (ASSM). He lectures part-time in the Department of Family Medicine at the Nelson Mandela School of Medicine and structures the Sexual Health modules for both undergraduate and postgraduate students in Family Medicine. He is also currently the Director of the Newkwa Sexual Health and Wellness Centre in Newlands.
pathways,” remembered Ramlachan. “I spent many days accompanying her to King Edward V111 Hospital in my youth. She eventually healed following an operation after many years of treatment and these memories lingered on in my mind as a teenager.” Growing up as the tenth child in a household of 11 children in the backyards of Clare Estate with no lights or water and the infamous pail sanitation system, Ramlachan was all too familiar with a life of poverty and adversity. His
The COVID-19 pandemic has literally changed the face of medicine, economics and the viability of medical practice. “Physical distancing, personal protective equipment, telemedicine and new sanitising methods have all contributed to a changed medical environment and again, it brings out caring as the principle to assist all,” he said.
father, a bus driver, died when he was six, and his mom,
“In response to the pandemic, the KZNDHC, under the brave leadership of Prof. Morgan Chetty together with the team of Dr Neven Govender, myself and Usizo, launched a COVID-19 free on-call helpline to assist all our people countrywide to answer questions or give advice needed to allay their fears during the pandemic. This is part of our social responsibility in response to the epidemic. The helpline has assisted over 15 000 callers to date,” said Ramlachan proudly.
always had an abundance of love, respect and support
But what exactly sparked Ramlachan’s “lifelong ambition to care”? “My mom suffered from recurrent closure of her right eye due to problems in her sinus and drainage
attempt to become an electrician was unsuccessful due
who had no formal education, encouraged her children to cultivate vegetables in the land around their rented slum barracks to sell at the early morning squatters’ market in Warwick Avenue. “Despite the adversities, I cherish my childhood and I from my courageous mother and elder siblings,” emphasised Ramlachan. His mom encouraged all her children to attend school but they had to rely on donated books and support from educational NGOs. Ramlachan attended Springfield Flats Primary School till Grade 8, Greyville High School from Grade 9, followed by ML Sultan Technical High School where he studied Electrical Trade Theory till Grade 10. His to apartheid laws and instead was forced to become an apprentice bricklayer at AG Stewart Builders in Durban.
RAMLACHAN’S SEXUAL HEALTH TIPS • Great sex happens in great relationships • Love, trust and respect are the cornerstones of a beautiful relationship • Nurture your love, trust and respect for each other • Spend time touching outside of sex • Kiss deeply • Change your attitude towards sex and fall in love again • Make spending quality time together and romance a priority • Have an ‘affair’ with your partner • Schedule time and romantic settings • Focus on being sensual before being sexual
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FOR Alumni and Friends OF THE DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
If you love the work that you do, you will never work a day in your life.
Ramlachan acquired a National Technical Certificate 3 from the ML Sultan Technical College as part of his apprenticeship and completed theTradeTest for Bricklayers in Olifantsfontein. Upon qualifying, he completed his Higher Technician’s Certificate T4 as a part-time student at the ML Sultan Technikon. Ramlachan then taught at the ML Sultan Apprentice School for five years and during this time, got married and welcomed his first daughter. Student life at ML Sultan Technikon was varied, exciting and was a wonderful experience for Ramlachan. “Our lecturers gave us many light-hearted moments and it was not uncommon to share a bunny chow with some of them or to even be complimented for attending lectures at night, even though you slept through half the lecture!” His arduous medical journey began in 1979 when he began studying part-time to gain his National Senior Certificate. He gained entrance to the then University of Natal Medical School where he began his MBChB degree in 1980, completed it in 1985 and did his internship at King Edward V111 Hospital. He started his private practice in Newlands in 1987 and in 2007, he finally received his Master’s Degree in Health Sciences (Sexual Health) from the University of Sydney in Australia. Ramlachan’s day at his practice always begins with seeing patients. He then catches up on emails, meets with medical reps and attends scheduled clinical study-related meetings. When he is not at the practice, he is either travelling for meetings and conferences or lecturing. “A typical day in the life of a medical practitioner does not just include eight or more hours of seeing and treating patients – every day is different with new challenges and learning opportunities,” stressed Ramlachan.
After hours, Ramlachan responds to emails, prepares for meetings or conference presentations, writes journal articles and spends considerable time reading. “I will always be dedicated to my career and have a passion for medicine, however, I have recently adopted a new lifestyle to spend more quality time with my family on the weekends.” He and his family now enjoy Sunday morning walks on the beach, exploring Durban and cooking. His family constitutes his loving wife of 44 years, Ronitha (home executive), three daughters (Shavashni (43), Thirashni (37) and Deepa (34) and their spouses Jai, Neelesh and Neville respectively), and five grandchildren. His mother, Parvathy, is deceased. Ever aware of his modest roots, Ramlachan is the founder of the Jyoti Jivanam Movement of South Africa, a non-profit and public beneficiary organisation that has provided food hampers to the less fortunate for the past 18 years.
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Broadcasting the benefits of natural health A serious childhood respiratory illness and her grandfather’s fervent pursuit of natural remedies spurred Dr Jabulile Cresancia Ngobese-Ngubane (40) to become a registered homeopath and natural health communication specialist who educates seven million radio listeners a week on healthy and natural living.
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gobese-Ngubane considers her ability to teach and advise so many people about health to be her greatest career achievement. “If I can teach a few that nature is good and that the greatest investment that they can make for themselves is good health, then I have not lived in vain.” Besides being on the radio, she also dispenses health tips and answers health-related queries on behalf of South African Natural Products via Whatsapp and email messages. She travels all over the country talking about different health topics and inspiring people to adopt a healthy lifestyle. She is also responsible for developing and executing their communication strategy, meeting with stakeholders, teaching face-to-face at the Living Naturally Academy and training on products. If it were not for Estie
We are blessed to be a blessing to others and that’s where we get more blessed. We are created in the image of God and I have to see myself the way God sees me because that’s the only eye that matters.
Dr Jabulile Ngobese-Ngubane DUT Master of Health Sciences (homeopathy) graduate DUTConnect // 10
FOR Alumni and Friends OF THE DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
Schrieber, this dream would have not been realised sooner (she’s the Chief Marketing Oficer of the company). “God gave us each what we are good at. I am passionate about what I do – where there is no fire, I can’t thrive,” enthused Ngobese-Ngubane. Born and raised by her God-fearing grandparents and mother in Babanango, Northern KZN, NgobeseNgubane’s first seven years of her life were fraught with lengthy stays in hospital intensive care because of a respiratory condition. “My grandfather would put natural remedies together to assist in my condition, and it was his knowledge and drive that propelled me to want to become a doctor.” Ngobese-Ngubane was only able to begin school at the age of eight while staying with her aunt in Esikhawini. After matriculating in 1997 from Khula Secondary School, she helped her uncle at Qalakabusha Prison as a kiosk attendant in Empangeni for a year. This taught her to be resilient, fearless and bold, and to view life through different lenses. Her decision to pursue a Bachelor of Health Sciences in Homeopathy at DUT came from seeing her cousin healed from a gum problem that specialists couldn’t cure with one consultation at the then Technikon Natal Homeopathy Clinic. Her time at DUT was extremely challenging: the shock of leaving a sheltered upbringing, the challenging modules, the financial stress and the belief of some lecturers that Homeopathy was not designed for black students. “I had to make a decision to either believe these words or prove them wrong, prove my worth and make a name for myself and to those who would follow that it was doable.” She became the first black student to pass all her modules from first year till master’s level without failing a module, which back then was challenging. During her studies in 2004, she began working for DUT as a clinic assistant at the Ukuba Nesibindi Homeopathic Community Health Centre where she worked without remuneration for two years. In 2006, she was officially employed on a threeyear contract to lecture isiZulu at DUT’s Homeopathy Department. She was then promoted to Head Clinician at the Ukuba Nesibindi Homoeopathic Community Health Centre. In 2009, she procured a full-time lecturer
I aspire to inspire before I expire. – Eugene Bell Jr.
position on DUT’s Faculty of Health Sciences committee, was a first-year level coordinator, mentored students and also served on the Equity and Transformation Committee. She has also been offered the position of Chairperson of the Employment Equity committee where she currently works, which is another achievement she’s proud of, especially after only working for the company for less than a year. Fond memories of her time at DUT encompass meeting her husband (Zwakele Ngubane, Director for Advancement and Alumni Relations Department), receiving a free dictionary as a first-year student in 1999 (which she still treasures today) and being able to befriend and inspire the late Dr Euvette Taylor. “DUT has been the greatest platform for me where I found my inner strength and potential. I would choose this institution over and over again with all its challenges that it imposed on me; I would still choose it.” Outside of work, Ngobese-Ngubane always puts her family first. “Other things are replaceable but not family, therefore, that which is irreplaceable I honour and invest in greatly, just like life. I want them to grow up remembering that I was here, I lived, loved and made a mark and was not apologetic and regretful of anything.” She has been happily married for 11 years and has two daughters Iminami (7) and Elenkosi (8). “I am tasking them already with reaching their greatness in all areas of their lives: the way they carry themselves, think of themselves and relate to others. I am showing them how to pursue greatness and not be a carbon copy of anyone else.” Ngobese-Ngubane is also involved in her church’s children’s ministry, offers support to those who come
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from broken homes, and is a proud donor to the Missing Middle campaign and other DUT charitable activities. “Simply DUT for life!” she enthused.
their communities (adults and children) to stay safe and healthy during this period. “Children are often forgotten – they too have been affected in this dramatic change of life as
She has also been asked to write weekly newsletters for Durban Christian Centre since the COVID-19 pandemic struck. These are aimed at equipping church members and
they know it,” she enthused. “Children are robust in spirit, even though they may not be physically strong, so reminding them of who they are and what they are capable of and that every child is a masterpiece changes their view of life.”
NGOBESE-NGUBANE’S TIPS FOR KEEPING HEALTHY • Invest in your health – it is your wealth. Any sickness or ill health may rob you of earning what you are worth. • Choices we make today about the way we eat will reflect what our future will look like. The body of a young person forgives a multitude of sins but when you age, it starts reminding you what and how you used to treat it. • Don’t underestimate the importance of pure water intake. • Maintain health using naturally-occurring substances. Synthetic chemicals overwhelm the body with too many toxins that will cause early ageing and life-threatening conditions. • Try to eat food as fresh as possible. If it’s not found in nature like that or can’t be made in your kitchen then it’s questionable if it should be consumed. • Plan your life accordingly and avoid procrastination. • Deal with stress and find the cause as early as possible to avoid catastrophe later. • Do yearly screenings, especially for conditions that run in the family. Anything that is diagnosed early may have a better prognosis than that which has been left too late. • Love and love more, even if circumstances dictate otherwise because you are trying to produce nature’s healing chemicals in your body, which you are in control of. • The body has the greatest ability to repair and recover but needs proper nutrients and a healthy lifestyle to maintain this. Therefore, live well. Eat right and live alive!
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FOR Alumni and Friends OF THE DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
Driving positive change in South African communities Almost 20 years from the time he asked himself, “How can I help?”, Darian Smith (38), National Quality Manager for Activate! Change Drivers, is still a tireless and dynamic catalyst for positive change in communities throughout South Africa.
“D
rugs, gangsterism, violence and abuse was something that we were becoming immune to in our community and I wanted to be part of making it better,” stated Smith with passion. “To work long hours and often without promise of reward requires a resilient spirit and unfailing commitment towards making things right. It’s not something you decide to do, it’s something that is second nature to your being as you recognise that your calling is one to serve.” Activate! Change Drivers has to date provided 4 267 young South Africans with training to change their lives and the world they inhabit. The organisation impacts diverse communities throughout all nine provinces in order to equip young people to be innovative, active citizens. A large part of Smith’s workday involves doing research on the topical issues in South Africa, as well as quality measures being utilised globally to evaluate programme effectiveness and quality. He analyses reports of their portfolios as well as feedback from programme participants according to the quality standards that he has developed, and provides recommendations to improve service quality. In normal times, he visits the programmes throughout South Africa and is often in meetings about the direction of the organisation. During lockdown, he has gravitated more towards online platforms. Besides his job, he is committed to building communities and being part of collaborative efforts to influence positive change in the form of training, developmental and awareness workshops and co-creating spaces that are safe and conducive for all communities. “My biggest career success is waking up each day knowing that the work I do is so much bigger than me and acknowledging that it is God who is my refuge, strengthens me, keeps me grounded and allows me to do what I was born to do.”
Darian Smith DUT BTech Child and Youth Development graduate DUTConnect // 13
One of the most sentimental moments in my life was when my son Kale, at the age of four, stood beside me on a stage and spoke about how we can make the country safe for women and children.
WHAT SMITH DOES OUTSIDE OF HIS DAY JOB • He is currently busy with Winter Blanket and Jersey Drives for his community • He works voluntarily at various childcare institutions and consults regularly for NGOs, FBOs, government departments and institutions pertaining to conflict management • He is a Board Director for the Wentworth Victim Friendly Centre that oversees a resource centre, trauma room and safe house for abused women • He is the Chairperson for Brothers for Life Wentworth • He is the former Chairperson for the CPF Youth Desk Merewent • He trains on request for childcare and social workers, prosecutors and magistrates in the field of Restorative Justice • He also regularly speaks at schools, NGOs and FBOs across KZN to involve the youth in the work he does • He coordinates a movement of a group of women in Wentworth standing up against genderbased violence • He facilitates trainings for corporates • He does motivational speaking in various spaces • He does team-buildings for NGOs
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Growing up in a close-knit community in Newlands East as the eldest son to humble and God-fearing parents (his dad worked as a moulder for Umgeni Iron Works and his mom worked at CNA), didn’t stop Smith from making some bad decisions as a teenager, but because of the foundation that was laid by his parents, he began to make better choices. His parents, who didn’t have the opportunity to study further themselves, encouraged him and his brother and sister to study after school, dream big and work hard. After attending Briardene Primary and matriculating from Hillview Secondary, Smith went on to study for his BTech Degree in Child and Youth Development at DUT while working part-time at CNA as a packer, cashier and merchandiser every weekend until he was employed by the National Institute for Crime Prevention (NICRO) in his fourth year as a co-ordinator for Wilderness Therapy Programmes, working with young people in conflict with the law. “When you’re paying for your own education, taking loans and your parents are having to sacrifice for you to be there, it does not allow you to disrespect the hope that they have by messing up your education. If I didn’t give it my all then what would I have been saying to the sacrifices that they made and the dreams I had for my community?” Smith remembers sitting in front of the DUT buildings with his friends eating Johnny’s chip rolls or hanging out
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at Papa Joe’s and speaking about the dreams they had. “My fondest memory is having lecturers like Dr Frida Rundell, Jacqui Winfield, Fathima Khan and Ann Southwood shape my young mind with the information that I needed to perfect my craft. These ladies are part of the foundation that has laid the path to the successes that I now experience in my career, for which I’m forever grateful.” Smith then received his Master’s Degree in Restorative Practices – Youth Counselling from the International Institute of Restorative Practices in Pennsylvania, USA. He missed out on a Fulbright Scholarship as his course was not accredited at the time. He is hoping to pursue his PhD in 2020 in Conflict, Peace and Transformation or Literature and Philosophy in Criminal Justice. Smith has a beautiful wife, Joann, who is his strongest supporter and a successful forensic investigator. They have two sons, Kale (9) and Cole (4) who follow in their dad’s footsteps of standing up against injustice by accompanying him on campaigns and to workshops. “I am very conscious of the balance between my personal and professional life. I can, at times, be a workaholic but I’m often brought back to reality with the consciousness of my kids needing an active, involved daddy in their lives.” He is indeed a very involved father: he assists with bathing and homework, and is a great example to them by assisting with housework. “I am a soccer coach for my son’s team (Fynnlands Under 9s) and am an avid reader. I also usually spend a lot of time in Milky Lane with my family – we are addicted to ice-cream!” jokes Smith.
SMITH’S TIPS ON HOW TO BECOME A CHANGEMAKER IN YOUR COMMUNITY • Encouraging student action through your own actions is a powerful and subtle way to get students to think about how they want to be involved, and inspires them to attend future events in the community. • By identifying the needs in your community, it places you in a much better position to make informed decisions of interventions that you would like to roll out. • The importance of doing things ‘with’ the community makes all the difference. By gaining community support, your projects or interventions will be a lot more successful than doing it alone. • Commitment, resilience, dedication and integrity are key values that you need to embody when driving change within your community. A community needs to be assured that you will not fall away when the going gets tough and throughout the intervention or project lifecycle. Your word is your bond. • Your mandate is to serve. The community, when it comes down to it, are not interested in titles; you need to get your hands dirty and plough the field. • Giving back through service to the community is a core value that takes a personal example to become rooted in a student’s fabric of being.
DUTConnect // 15
Pursuing his people-rescuing passion Rugged, easy-going and unassuming Travis Trower (38), Principal for Rescue South Africa, is wholeheartedly dedicated to saving lives. This was formally recognised by the United Nations earlier in 2019 when he courageously led a team of volunteers during one of the most successful disaster responses in South African history – Cyclone Idai in Mozambique.
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escue SA is an NGO that trains emergency response personnel, co-ordinates volunteers and provides equipment for disaster recovery missions. It was one of the first NGOs to set up camp at Mozambique’s second city, Beira, where Trower hung out of helicopters and waded through muddy floodwaters to help rescue thousands of people during the gruelling 10-day mission. He left his heavily pregnant wife at home and missed out on his wedding anniversary without remuneration to lend a hand.
Trower was also in the thick of the rescue mission after the earthquake in Haiti in 2010, the Tongaat Mall collapse in 2013 as well as the Nepal earthquake in 2015, which took place only a week after he was married! “I find [that] this [saving lives] is the biggest honour and privilege. I don’t get PTSD and stuff because doing this makes me happy,” said Trower. Ever humble, Trower cannot say what his greatest career success has been: “I am grateful that I have been blessed with the opportunity to help people in some of the worst disaster areas in the world and that I still get to do that in my current role.” So, what exactly birthed such zeal for rescuing people in the eldest of four children from a modest household in Hilton? “When I was younger, my father and I spent a lot of time in the mountains. This is where my love for rock climbing started and I think this is what sparked my interest in Search and Rescue.” He spent most of his childhood outdoors, never had any TV games or spent much time watching TV like other children. He attended Merchiston Preparatory School and later Maritzburg College in Pietermaritzburg. Both his parents (his mom worked for Medi-Clinic and his father for Nestlé) encouraged him to study after matric. Trower completed a National Diploma in Emergency Medical Care and Rescue and went on to do a Bachelor
Travis Trower DUT BTech Emergency Medical Care graduate
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TROWER’S WORK HISTORY
Learn from your hardships and always work hard. Life is a journey, and your mistakes become the lessons you need to grow as a human being. It is this process that turns you into the kind of person who can save lives.
of Technology Degree in Emergency Medical Care, both at DUT. He is currently doing his Master’s in Emergency Medical Care at the University of Johannesburg where he is still an honorary lecturer (he has trained on everything from emergency cardiovasular support to technical rescue). He is now working at the Nelson Mandela University as their rescue coordinator for the Bachelors Degree in Emergency Medical Care. He has spent most of his time during the COVID-19 lockdown placing all the rescue modules online for the Nelson Mandela University. “Being a student was difficult as I also had three other siblings who needed to study. I worked part-time at ER24 and they gave me a lot of support as I was able to work at night and study during the day,” said Trower. “I think being a student has its ups and downs, but when I look back on it, I enjoyed it – especially the Rescue component of the course.”
Trower is involved in rescues on a day-to-day basis with the South African Police Service (Search and Rescue), Gift of the Givers, RescueTech, The Mountain Club of South Africa as well as The Fire and Rescue Department. He has also assisted with training the eThekwini Fire and Rescue Department. Trower completed various part-time contracts within mine rescue and oil and gas throughout East Africa doing consulting work, medical coverage and technical rescue training. His responsibilities have mainly involved clinical training in emergency medical care (advanced life support skills in extreme rescue environments) for the past 10 years. His clinical work experience spans 19 years.
His advice to students is: “Work hard and embrace the system that you are in. It has to be designed in a way that can only benefit you, make you a better person and rescue practitioner. No pressure, no diamonds!” Despite working and studying hard, he does manage to carve out time with his precious family in Port Elizabeth – his ‘amazing and understanding’ wife Elanie (they’ve been together for seven years and married for five) and two beautiful daughters – Hannah, 10 and Lily, 14 months old. Whenever he gets the opportunity, he escapes to the great outdoors – surfing, rock climbing, hiking, fishing or hunting. The apt motto that he lives by is: “You have never lived till you have almost died. For those who have fought for it, life has a flavour the protected shall never know” – Guy de Maupassant.
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Saving lives by God's grace Glen Preston (40), owner of Hibiscus Med-Evac Service for the past 15 years and the only nonDepartment of Health recipient of the MEC’s Award for Excellence in 2016 for a rescue in a rural community, felt compelled to save lives from a very early age.
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orn the second son to teacher parents in Zimbabwe, Preston’s family emigrated to Johannesburg, moved to Richards Bay, then finally settled in Amanzimtoti when his dad moved into the HR field. He was a school first aider as well as a cub and scout and he completed both his nipper and lifeguard awards in his school career. Preston first caught the paramedic bug when, as a school first aider in Grade 8, he attended the SA Drum Majorette Competition at Kingsmead Stadium in Durban. He quizzed DUT National Diploma students and
their lecturers for hours to learn about the course, equipment and career. He began volunteering for an ambulance service in Grade 9 and continued until he completed matric at Amanzimtoti High School. Preston enrolled for his National Diploma in Ambulance and Emergency Care through Technikon Natal full-time from 1998 and describes it as one of the most intense and demanding courses at the Institution. He worked parttime for experience and supplemental income and completed his BTech degree part-time at DUT in 2006. “We worked super hard and had an absolute blast doing so! There is something about shared danger and challenges/hardship that can’t be explained,” enthused Preston. “Whether it was climbing a mountain or jumping off a dam wall for rescue to the weekly physical training, it forges bonds that last a lifetime and transcend all gender or racial lines.” After Tech, Preston completed updates and continuous development courses, remaining in the field. He has delivered lectures and assessed at DUT and private colleges and has been involved in a number of advisory/regulatory bodies to train/mentor many practitioners over the years. He is now busy ‘toying with the idea’ of completing his master’s degree. A self-confessed workaholic, Preston’s business provides employment for 30 staff members. The busy service currently runs four ambulances, two response cars and boats and
Glen Preston DUT BTECH ambulance and Emergency Medical Care graduate
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boasts 24-hour service to an average of 300 patients a month. They regularly assist the local NSRI, SAPS Search and Rescue and Protection Services with complete rescues and body recoveries. “It’s the best part of the field – I can be writing you a mail this moment and launching a boat or hanging under a helicopter the next,” laughed Preston. What does he consider to be the pinnacle of his career? “Saving a life; there is no greater feeling than walking into a hospital room or bumping into someone whose life you saved. To be there at the start of life and the end of life is something you just cannot verbalise fully.” A typical morning starts with an early gym session, then a few minutes with his daughters, assuming there are no emergencies. He then gets his paperwork and admin out of the way and still actively responds to calls as well as assists and mentors crews. “The pandemic is just another day at the office: the Level 5 lockdown substantially dropped our workload due to decreased traffic and industrial incidents, but also as many people were very scared of hospitals and catching COVID19,” he said. “As the levels decreased and the pandemic changed, we saw an increase in caseload, especially after drunken driving became a factor after Level 3 allowed alcohol sales again. In terms of COVID-19 patients, we have seen an increase in numbers as the pandemic grows.” Preston’s main diversions from work are church, scuba diving and sport shooting/hunting. ‘Saved by God’s grace. To Him all glory’ features on all Preston’s med-evac vehicles, which is indicative of where he draws his daily strength from. “I tell my staff/students that we don’t change the outcome but we do affect the timetable. The Bible tells us that
This is one of the hardest careers emotionally and physically – it can take everything – health, family, sanity if you let it… This is not a career you walk into and learn; this is 100% your passion/calling or it is not.
there are two dates we can rely on: the day to be born and the day to die. The in-between bit is up to us. In my belief, God’s grace offered salvation through the Lord Jesus atoning for sins on the cross – this grace saves us spiritually.” He has been married for eight years to registered nurse and stay-at-home mom Karen and their girls Caylen and Ella, who are three and five years old respectively. “I try to spend as much of my spare time with my family as possible – watching them see things for the first time and their perspective is such a contrast to our daily lives. “It is so amazing to watch them grow and there is nothing better than getting happy shrieks and hugs when you get home at the end of the day, especially if it’s been difficult/ busy,” shared Preston. “The flip side is that there’s nothing worse than running out when on standby, especially if you’ve barely been home with them.”
DUTConnect // 19
Safeguarding Durban's environment and people Preshod Ramlal (42) fights the scourge of pollution every day as Senior Environmental Health Practitioner at eThekwini Municipality’s Health Unit in order to protect both the environment and the health of Durban’s population.
Excellence is never an accident; It is the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, skillful execution, and the vision to see obstacles as opportunities – Unknown.
Preshod Ramlal DUT Master of Health Sciences in Environmental Health graduate
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H
is job sees him inspecting, permitting and auditing industry (air, water, noise, land pollution), investigating environmental pollution, health surveillance of premises, water supply and sanitation, and attending to food safety complaints. “I have the education, training and practical skill set needed to analyse, provide input and implement legislative requirements, informal and industrial inspections with an overall objective of regulatory compliance, and am particularly adept at applying, implementing and enforcing City bylaws with a strong focus on public health and the environment,” said Ramlal, who clearly loves his job. Ramlal is also a member of the Inner Thekwini Regeneration and Urban Management Programme (ITRUMP), which inspects bad buildings, illegal accommodation establishments, nightclubs and liquor outlets. Although he currently specialises in environmental pollution, he has also dealt with food safety, occupational health and safety, informal settlement and community development, informal trade, healthcare risk waste, indoor air quality, environmental management and research and development in his career. “As we navigate through the phases of our country’s lockdown measures, it is important for everyone to know that the threat of SARS-Cov-2 and other potential outbreaks is far from over. Indeed, this is a period of transition and not just reverting to some sort of normalcy,” stressed Ramlal. “This means that post COVID-19, we all have a social, moral and legal obligation to rethink and behave differently. It means that each one of us will have to conduct ourselves in a way that will protect and care for each other. Perhaps the biggest lesson of the pandemic is to show us that the world is one big family asking for love, understanding, humility, compassion, empathy and ultimately striving for common humanity… “Nonetheless, we must all persevere, and for me personally, COVID-19 pandemic has not dampened my dreams and aspirations.” His teaching experience within his role has entailed lecturing student nurses between 2006 and 2012 from various state hospitals and private nursing institutions; advising the DUT’s Environmental Health Workgroup
Don’t make assumptions, let good research speak for itself.
on academics and syllabus; supervising and training Environmental Health students from DUT and MUT annually; moderating MUT third-year Epidemiology students; and assisting, mentoring and supporting various top officials on technical assessments, writing reports, press statements and advising on different issues in environmental health. Ramlal was born and raised in Kenville, Durban within a family of two sisters, one brother, a dad who owned a trucking company (who died when Ramlal was 10), and a mom who was a housewife. He attended Kenville Primary and matriculated from Sea Cow Lake Secondary School. He was always encouraged to study hard and instead of toys, his mom took him to the public library and bought him many books, which encouraged him to read. “This was, perhaps, the beginning of an early academic career, which has moulded my interest in learning and research throughout the years.” Ramlal chose a career in Environmental Health because of its diversity in study disciplines and the incredible scope of work that practitioners were exposed to.“I applied and was accepted for Chemical Engineering and Analytical Chemistry at DUT but on the day of registration, it was kind of a selfrealisation moment and I just could not see myself in a white coat working in a laboratory for the rest of my life.” “During my studies for my National Diploma: Environmental Health (1996-1998), I met incredible and amazing academic leaders and staff at DUT,” said Ramlal. “In fact, I keep in contact with some of them who continue to be role models and career and life skill mentors.” After studying, Ramlal became a meat inspector/hygiene officer/classifier at various abattoirs in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng from 1999 to 2002.
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Work hard, pray hard, play hard, and more importantly, travel!
Living by the adage: “Students are rated by what they finish, not what they attempt,” Ramlal returned to DUT in 2003 to study for his Bachelor of Technology Degree in Environmental Health, which he obtained cum laude and for which he received the Dean’s Merit Award for Academic Excellence. Next came his Honours in Administration in Public Administration (cum laude) from UNISA (2013), followed by his Master of Technology Degree in Environmental Health (DUT) (2016). Taking the bold and crazy step of pursuing a PhD degree at UKZN in Life Sciences (with hectic work and family commitments) is Ramlal’s biggest achievement to date: “Be prepared for huge sacrifices and shortened evenings and weekends!” Ramlal believes that the most valuable things you can contribute to others is your time and knowledge. “I have,
over the years, encouraged family members, students, colleagues and sometimes even strangers to pursue their studies and to travel… nothing will allow you to obtain firsthand knowledge of people, places and culture like travel!” Ramlal’s family, with whom he loves to spend time, is composed of a “loving, supportive, incredible and amazing spouse”, Naina (an operations manager in the labour brokerage sector), two sons: Tusshar (12) and Abhay (8) and his “leading light/pillar of strength”, his mom, who lives with them in Sea Cow Lake. “I used to enjoy watching my favourite football team Manchester United, but these days they cause me more stress than relaxation!” joked Ramlal.
RAMLAL’S TIPS FOR A BETTER ENVIRONMENT Alumni have the knowledge, skill set and a responsibility to promote human health and well-being and foster health and safety at home and in their communities: • Practice good hygiene by keeping clean and washing regularly • Drink clean water • Have a healthy, balanced diet • Reuse, reduce and recycle as far as is reasonably practicable all waste generated in your homes • Understand and take all reasonable measures to prevent air, noise, water and land pollution • Organise community meetings and campaigns to raise awareness on environmental sustainability and the fact that we depend on the environment for energy and the materials needed to sustain life
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FOR Alumni and Friends OF THE DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
Your lifestyle management during COVID-19 By Ms Samantha Rajcoomar, Manager: Employee Wellness Programme
The COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing lockdown has certainly created unprecedented upheaval in all of our lives. Many employees are still working remotely but there are still things you can do to help reduce your anxiety and keep your daily routine chugging along.
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lthough social distancing complicates matters, you should make it your goal to stay mentally, physically and medically healthy during this stressful time. Manage your well-being in the next few weeks with the following self-care and survival tips.
Eat Well I am sure that figuring out what’s for breakfast, lunch and supper can be challenging and frustrating. Remember that good nutrition is crucial for good health, particularly in times when the immune system might need to fight back. Panic buying and disruptions to food supply systems mean that some food items can now be difficult to source: • • •
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Firstly, ensure that all food items in your pantry and freezer are within their best before and expiry dates. Easy, affordable and healthy food should be a priority. Although comfort food may be calling out to you, remember to prioritise foods from all essential food groups, including protein, grains, vegetables and healthy fats. Fill your plate with immune-boosting nutrients. Remember that dry goods like rice, pasta, beans, and oats are a good foundation, as they not only have a long shelf life, they are also easy to store and they can be incorporated into a variety of nutritious meals.
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Prioritise fresh foods first before turning to nonperishable items. Build up a stock of healthy snacks. Limit highly processed food in your diet. Limit processed food with too much salt, sugar and fat. Go easy on the frozen meals. Make cooking and eating a fun and meaningful part of your family routine. Get creative with cooking and try new recipes or revive old favourites. Stay hydrated and try to avoid alcohol. Remember that good hygiene is important when handling food to prevent food-borne illnesses.
Be Safe if you are at Higher Risk Although no one is invulnerable and at zero risk when it comes to the coronavirus, some individuals are at a much higher risk for serious complications. If you or a family member are an older person with underlying medical conditions such as emphysema, cancer, hypertension, lung and heart diseases, diabetes or any other condition that compromises your immune system, then you need to take heed of the following: •
Follow COVID-19 prevention recommendations which focus on handwashing, social distancing, respiratory etiquette and self-isolation or selfquarantine, when appropriate.
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One of the most important measures for high-risk individuals and those caring for them is to ensure that they practice as much social distancing as possible so as not to be compromised. Inform your healthcare practitioner that you are taking immune suppressing or chronic medication if you are being assessed for infectious symptoms. Suggest to your healthcare practitioner to reasonably postpone appointments that can be rescheduled for when absolutely necessary. Ensure that you have a sufficient supply of chronic medication to keep your underlying condition in control. If you have a chronic condition and live alone, request that your loved ones or friends check on you regularly telephonically or via video chats, etc. Contact your healthcare practitioner if you have concerns about COVID-19, are experiencing symptoms or if you are sick. Keep abreast of evolving information about the virus, manage your stress and stay healthy by practicing good dietary habits and exercise.
Protect your Mental Health The anxiety and stress experienced by many about the uncertainty and impact of COVID-19 can be intensified among those who are most vulnerable. If you have been feeling anxious, frustrated, angry or confused lately, know that you are not alone. Remember to: • •
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Keep relationships alive with patience and compromise. Should you feel at risk for domestic violence, sexual assault or emotional abuse, please contact the emergency numbers provided later in the article immediately. If you are taking care of children and the elderly, people, provide them with safety, love and attention to alleviate their fears and protect their mental health. Do not withdraw into isolation but rather stay connected with your family, friends, children and work colleagues. Reduce your fear and panic by being informed only by reliable sources and limit yourself from social media – rather follow positive
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articles and links that make you feel good. Develop self-confidence, self-care and focus on positivity. Keep a routine that gives you a sense of normality. Avoid the temptation of alcohol as a coping mechanism. Avoid self-medicating with forbidden substances not prescribed by your healthcare practitioner. Comply with your prescribed medication, as required. It is important to identify your triggers and manage a potential relapse in order to avoid hospitalisation. Practice deep breathing and meditation, which can be helpful to alleviate stress and restore feelings of calmness. Keep yourself busy and stimulated by engaging in activities that move your focus from the current gloomy situation. It is easy to get caught in panic so try to stay calm. If the symptoms of stress and anxiety worsen and you are feeling overwhelmed with emotions of sadness and depression or even if you feel suicidal, please speak to your medical practitioner or a mental health professional immediately. You can also seek assistance via the following numbers: SA Depression & Anxiety Group: Lifeline: Psychologist: N. Nyawose (sms): Psychologist: C. Jordan (sms): Coronavirus 24-hotline: COVID Whatsapp no.: Employee Wellness Programme: Suicide Helpline: GBV Command Centre: South African Police Service:
080 021 2223 086 132 2322 073 209 9274 082 331 3434 080 002 9999 060 012 3456 084 332 2971 080 056 7567 080 042 8428 086 001 0111
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Stay Active Even if you are not much of a fitness fanatic, physical activity is imperative for optimal health as it can boost your immune function and reduce the risk of co-morbid conditions that place infected individuals at a greater risk. Exercise during this uncertain period can be beneficial in helping you to manage the stress experienced due to family concerns, economic stresses, potential job losses and other related challenges. Remember that every active minute counts. • • • • • • • • •
Do not sit all day. If watching TV or working remotely, get up periodically and engage in an activity or chore. Walk briskly around the house or up and down the stairs for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times per day. Exercise or skip to your favourite music. Follow online exercise videos. Use home cardio and other machines, if available. Perform yoga, deep breathing and mindfulness. Ride your bicycle, start gardening or play with your pet. Engage in active, competitive games with your family. Consider simple exercises like squats, lunges and sit ups.
Working Remotely The current COVID-19 crisis has mandated many employees to work remotely from home, which can cause major adjustments. The lines between work and family can be blurred as employees struggle to maintain healthy boundaries between their professional and personal lives. Poor time management and over commitment by employees working from home will result in afternoons becoming evenings, weekdays blending into weekends
with a little sense of time remaining. Given that this is the new ‘normal’, here are a few tips that can make your new working experience less stressful and more productive: • •
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Designate a comfortable workspace that is not too crowded with your family and pets. Ensure that you have the necessary internet connectivity that can support your webinars, teams and conference calls. Set physical and mental boundaries with your family, colleagues and manager. Practice time and inclusive management. Focus on important work. Maintain a consistent routine and establish healthy habits. Keep a diary or a journal of work activities. Stay connected with co-workers. Ask for help as vulnerability has many faces. Look after your mental health and prevent burnout.
Manage your Financial Health This is a critical period to manage your finances as panicking may lead to rash financial decisions that could have a negative impact on your finances. With a solid handle on your finances, you will be better prepared for whatever life throws your way in the coming weeks and months. It is recommended that you: •
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Know your expenses and keep it to a minimum by cutting back on non-critical and non-essential spending. Prioritise your payments. Create an adjusted budget due to looming uncertainty. Refrain from using your emergency fund to stock pile groceries. Alert your creditors if you cannot meet payments. Make saving a priority. Avoid more debt during these uncertain times. Protect yourself from financial fraud. Familiarise yourself with your medical aid cover and insurances. Beware of changing your risk policies at this time. Update your last will and testament. If you are feeling overwhelmed by your financial situation, seek financial advice.
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Ensuring free healthcare for DUT students DUT’s Isolempilo Campus Health Clinic, staffed by professional nurses and doctors, provides registered students with free medical services and advice in a professional and confidential manner. DUT Connect spoke to Sister Soori Wardthen to clarify what services are offered and which events the clinic hosted last year. Q: What is the Clinic’s aim, vision and mission? A: Our aim is to make health and wellness a culture and/ or a lifestyle among our student population. Our vision is to provide free primary healthcare aimed at preventive, promotive and curative healthcare for students.We try to provide a holistic healthcare service that assists students to reach their maximum potential in all areas of life. We, therefore, direct our efforts holistically to be in line with the World Health Organisation (WHO). Acknowledging that these areas of life are interrelated, we, therefore, seek to promote a multidisciplinary approach in the provision of healthcare services within our university. We also take cognisance of the external factors that influence health, namely, the environmental and economic factors. Q: What unique features are on offer at the clinic that will make students’ lives easier? A: The clinic offers a comprehensive service within the Department of Student Counselling and Health with ease of referrals
to and from the Student Counselling and HIV Centre. Furthermore, students are referred to departments within the University for other services that are available, namely: • Radiography • Chiropractic • Homeopathy • Dental The services available at the campus health clinic are as follows: • Treatment for minor ailments, e.g. cough and colds • Treatment for sexually transmitted infections • All contraceptives including: ºº Male and female condoms ºº Emergency contraceptives (morning after pill) ºº Implanon ºº Emergency care, including rape management and needle stick injuries, epilepsy and asthma ºº Pap smears ºº A support system for long-term treatment ºº Wellness clinic ºº Tuberculosis management ºº A medical doctor is available for two hours daily ºº Health information and dissemination ºº Immunisation ºº Referrals to and from clinics (internally and externally) ºº HIV testing service, including provider-initiated counselling and testing (PICT) ºº Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV ºº Post-exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for rape or needle stick injuries ºº Anti-retroviral treatment (ART) initiation for HIV-positive students
A senior professional nurse at an isolation room for suspected COVID-19 patients at the Ritson Campus. DUTConnect // 26
FOR Alumni and Friends OF THE DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
Plan A Prevention of Pregnancies for Tertiary Students (IALCH)
Pregnancy Awareness Day
Mental Health and Wellness Fair
Q: What have been the most prevalent health issues that you have dealt with in past year? A: These conditions have been the most prevalent: • Dermatological – eczemas and fungal infections, allergic reactions and acne • Gastrointestinal conditions • Sexually-transmitted infections • Seasonal flu and common colds Q: What events do you host? Where do you go and who do you service? A: Events are usually held on campus to serve the DUT community. • Events held in 2019: ºº Mental Health and Wellness Fair ºº Know your Status ºº MMC ºº STI Condom Week ºº Plan A Prevention of Pregnancies for Tertiary Students (IALCH) ºº Pregnancy Awareness Day ºº First-year Student Orientation ºº International Menstrual Hygiene Day ºº World Aids Day ºº Cuppa for Cansa fundraising for NGOs ºº HIV/AIDS GBV community engagement • Health services in Durban are available on the following campuses: ºº Steve Biko ºº Ritson ºº City ºº Brickfield Q: What has been the response of students to your services? A: Students are happy that health services are offered on campus, saving them from having to wait in long queues at primary healthcare clinics and hospitals. Students are seen on an appointment basis, usually within an hour, at a time that suits them. There are no queues or bookings for emergencies.
Know Your Status
STI Condom Week
Q: Are your services well-known, accessible and communicated effectively? A: At present, we are not accessible to students on the ML Sultan campus. These students attend the clinic on the Ritson or Steve Biko campuses. Services are communicated at orientation and events, and information is also available on the DUT website. Q: What are the costs involved in paying a visit? Is it open to outsiders or just currently registered students? A: The services are exclusively for registered DUT students and there are no costs to access treatment. Consultations with the medical doctors are also free. Q: Do students get to do their practical medical training at the clinic? A: The training is not offered for Medical interns, however, a limited number of students from the Health Sciences Department have been accommodated. Students from other departments at DUT, e.g. Public Relations, are also offered an opportunity to fulfil the requirements for Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and are placed at the campus clinics. Q: What advice or tips would you give current and past students in terms of maintaining good health? A: Maintain good health by: • Know you and your partner’s HIV status and practice dual protection • Do not succumb to peer pressure • Balance your social life and studies • Eat a balanced diet • Attend the clinic annually for basic screening, e.g. blood pressure and pap smears • Have routine HIV testing every three months Q: Issues of concern • The current SARS-CoV 2 Pandemic • An increase in the number of students presenting with mental illness from anxiety-related issues and depression to more serious conditions
CONTACT DETAILS In order to make an appointment, attend the clinic or call: Tel: 031 373 2223 Gate 5, Steve Biko Campus (opposite the Sports Centre) DUTConnect // 27
The 2019 President's Cup Golf Day The 8th edition of the President’s Cup Golf Day was held at the Country Club Johannesburg in October last year.
T
he event received overwhelming support from 100 players accompanied by bright, sunny skies. After the round of golf, players sat down to dinner at which an entertaining auction was held. The highlight of the day was the prizegiving ceremony. The players’ golf skills were evident as the winning teams were neck-and-neck with
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their scores. The winners of the 2019 President’s Cup Golf Day were: Nicholas Xolo, Mafika Thusi, Wilie Xolo and Ntokozo Zulu. Well done to our winners! Many thanks to all our sponsors – both individuals as well as corporates.
Advancement
AND ALUMNI
Relations