The Durban University of Technology is basking in the achievements of two students who have been selected to study abroad.
One is BTech graduate Nastasia Ramsamy, who has won the Abe Bailey Travel Bursary. DUT has had a winner of the bursary for three consecutive years, with those chosen showing academic excellence, leadership skills and service to the community.
Ramsamy was the top chemical engineering BTech student last year and received a merit award for her performance. She was also selected by the Institute of Professional Engineering Technologists to receive an award for the best academic achievement by a woman in BTech Engineering last year.
She is to join 17 other students and junior staff from other universities for an educational and cultural tour of the UK.
“I am extremely nervous and excited,” she said.
“I want to learn about the culture and tertiary education system of the UK, to effect a greater understanding of South African culture and to spread the ubuntu spirit.
“My plans are to complete my master’s and doctorate in chemical engineering.”
The second student is catering management specialist Lindokuhle Mthombeni, who is to join 15 other students on the sought-after Disney World one-year internship in Florida in the US.
Mthombeni’s contract will run from December 10 until the end of November.
The internship entails extensive exposure to the hospitality sector.
“I’ve always dreamed of living abroad, I just never knew how that could become a reality,” Mthombeni said.
“I was surprised to be selected. I was intimidated by my peers – they seemed so competent I thought I didn’t stand a chance.”
Mthombeni is to be placed at five-star kitchens at Disney World, where he will hone his skills as a chef. - The Mercury