Durban University of Technology mourns four student deaths in two weeks

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) community is mourning the loss of two more promising students, bringing the total number of student deaths to four within two weeks.

These incidents occurred separately and are unrelated.

DUT spokesperson Alan Khan stated that the university was shocked and sad to learn of the passing of two students.

Khan said Lungelo Nduduzo Dlamini, a third-year student in the Bachelor of Health Sciences in Diagnostic Radiography programme within the Faculty of Health Sciences, sadly passed away after a period of illness.

He said Nobahle Mkhwanazi, a PhD candidate in Information and Corporate Management in the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, tragically lost her life in a motor vehicle accident last week.

This comes after the body of third-year Nursing student, Manqoba Mnyandu, who was based in the Midlands, was discovered last Thursday, more than a week after he went missing.

Three days prior, DUT confirmed the death of Siphiwokuhle Madela, also a third-year student enrolled in the BHSc Diagnostic Radiography programme in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the Steve Biko campus in Durban.

Madela, who was described by the DUT as a dedicated, hardworking student who performed well in his studies, fell from the S-Block building.

Memorial services were held for both students last week.

KwaZulu-Natal police launched investigations into both incidents.

This string of tragedies has left the campus community shocked and grieving.

Khan said this has been a difficult and traumatic period for the DUT community.

“On behalf of the entire DUT community, we extend our sincere condolences to the families, friends, classmates, and colleagues of both students, as well as to the Faculty of Health Sciences and the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics.

“We join them in mourning these tragic losses and pray that they may find strength, comfort, and peace during this profoundly difficult time. May the souls of Mr Dlamini and Ms Mkhwanazi rest in eternal peace,” he said.

Khan advised that the DUT Student Services team in the Student Counselling and Health Unit is actively providing counselling and support to affected students.

“We continue to encourage anyone in need of assistance to please make use of these services,” he said.

karen.singh@inl.co.za