Parliament, Thursday, 9 October 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training has raised serious concern over infighting among Council members at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), warning that the disputes could undermine governance and negatively affect teaching and learning at the institution.
The committee was on its third day of its week-long oversight visit to post-school education and training institutions in KwaZulu-Natal with a visit to DUT’s Indumiso Campus in Pietermaritzburg. Committee members urged the university to address internal conflicts decisively, noting that Council disputes could compromise the institution’s ability to serve students effectively.
Members further voiced disappointment that one of DUT’s student residences remains underutilised due to structural defects, despite millions being spent on renovations. The committee called for accountability from the contractors involved, stating that those responsible for poor workmanship should be “named and shamed.
Committee Chairperson Mr Tebogo Letsie said it was unacceptable that students residing in the affected building still face basic challenges such as having to hand-wash their clothes due to non-functional laundry facilities. “We cannot continue to invest money we do not have into projects that fail to deliver desired results,” added Mr Letsie.
“We are not here to criticise for the sake of it, but to ensure that students receive quality education and decent living conditions. Unfortunately, much of today’s discussion focused on side issues rather than the core business of the university.”
Despite these challenges, the committee commended DUT for visible improvements at the Indumiso Campus, particularly the renovated engineering lecture halls that are nearing completion.
The committee also expressed concern about a sexual harassment incident involving a university bus driver, which triggered student protests. It urged the university to strengthen internal systems to ensure accountability and safeguard student wellbeing. The committee also urged student leaders not to destroy much needed university infrastructure during their protest.
Today, Thursday, 9 October, the Committee will be visiting the University of KwaZulu-Natal main campus in Westville.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON HIGHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING, MR TEBOGO LETSIE.
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