Top Students Recognised at Corobrik Awards Event

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The extraordinary skill, commitment and inventiveness of students in the Discipline of Architecture within UKZN’s School of Built Environment and Development Studies were celebrated during Corobrik’s annual award ceremony.

Corobrik, which supports government infrastructure projects involving quantity surveying, property development and landscape architecture, is a leading producer, distributor and marketer of clay pavers, bricks and other building materials in South Africa.

Mr Shahil Singh was this year’s winner pocketing R12 000 in prize money, with Mr Nathan Francis and Mr Navan Padayachee sharing second prize of R8 000, and Mr Bikash Dhurgabarsad and Ms Erin Pranise Naidoo third prize of R6 000.

A special award with a R6 000 prize for the best use of clay masonry, was won by Ms Chole Naidoo.

Dean and Head of the School, Professor Ernest Khalema welcomed guests, praising the students for their exceptional work which had allowed the Discipline a large amount of much-needed development.

Khalema thanked parents for their trust in UKZN, highlighting that the ongoing changes in the College structure would have a significant impact on the School’s initiatives, through Project Renewal developments.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Sciences, Professor Fhatuwani Mudau, who attended on behalf of the Architecture Discipline, encouraged Corobrik to start a research and development initiative with the Discipline.

Corobrik’s representative Mr Christopher du Trevou described architecture as the ‘art of shaping environments that inspire, elevate and transform the lives of those who experience them.

‘This event recognises and celebrates students’ work which reflects the highest standards of creativity, vision and technical skills that are at the heart of architectural excellence,’ said du Trevou.

He urged the students to always be inquisitive, strong, and cooperative in order to succeed in the field saying top class architects not only solve current problems but also anticipate and address potential problems down the line.

A previous recipient of a Corobrik award Mr Kreolin Naicker said the accolades provided a transformative experience which demonstrated the power of hard work and pushed creative boundaries, leading to remarkable outcomes.

Naicker congratulated the winners, saying it was a significant opportunity for architectural students to showcase their identity and design principles.

He also thanked Corobrik for giving students an opportunity to display their designs as well as recognising their hard work throughout the year. ‘It is through your efforts that we gather here today to celebrate the amazing work of the students who will help shape the future of our built environment.’

The academic leader of Architecture, Dr Lawrence Ogunsanya, said he was thankful for the support from academics, industry partners and parents of all the students who received awards and prizes.

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Photograph: Supplied