The Student Representative (SRC) Social and Welfare Officer (PMB) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Otto Pupuma is committed to promoting student safety within the institution and outside by working towards enhancing campus security measures.

She aims to raise awareness about safety issues implementing programmes to prevent violence, harassment, and any sort of discrimination .

Pupuma, a third-year Supply Chain Management student is responsible for the initiatives and programmes aimed at promoting the social well-being and welfare of students within a university.

“My role as an SRC social and welfare officer includes organising events to foster a sense of community, providing support services for students facing challenges, advocating for student rights and needs related to welfare issues, and collaborating with other student organisations and university departments to address social concerns and often serve as a liaison between students and the administration regarding welfare-related matters,” she said.

She further explained that the challenges she faced included dealing with high expectations from students while trying to manage their demands. However through compromising, strategic planning and collaboration with her team, she has been able to overcome the challenges.

The SRC Social and Welfare Officer is planning to promote the DUT community and inclusivity through initiatives, and support services, in fostering a sense of community and belonging among students and to promote diversity within the DUT community.

“Knowing that I have been able to make a difference in enhancing the overall welfare and sense of community among my constituencies has been the most fulfilling aspect of my role,” added Pupuma.

She is looking forward to improving student well-being by enhancing mental health support services and advocating for resources to support student’s physical and emotional well-being.

Pictured: SRC Social and Welfare Officer (PMB), Otto Pupuma.

Patience Makhaye