40 Years of Service – Donovan Lategan
MILESTONE: Donovan Lategan was honoured with a Long Service Award for 40 years of service.
Thursday, 13 August 2026
“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”
This is the message from Donovan Lategan as he celebrates a remarkable milestone – a Long Service Award for four decades of service at CPUT.
He first joined the institution on 6 January 1986 as a Laboratory Assistant in the Department of Dental Technology, which was based in the Foretrust Building on the Foreshore, Cape Town.
Today, he continues to serve as a Laboratory Assistant in the Department of Dental Sciences, a job he is as committed to as the first day he started.
“My day-to-day job is preparing the labs for practical sessions. I switch on certain equipment before the students arrive. I’m responsible for the first- and second-year students’ labs. I have about 40 students altogether and I must prepare their working models.
“I prepare the models which the students work on, and the lecturer gives me the instructions. I must also see that all the materials are filled up in the machines needed. I repair certain equipment, when needed. If I can’t repair it, I send it to dental suppliers. I invigilate during practical exams and supervise during class practicals.”
Reflecting on his four decades at CPUT, he has many positive memories.
“There are so many memories working with students and helping them where I can. I was always prepared to listen to students who had personal problems in their lives. You can say I was like a father figure to them when they needed advice. Every day, from the first day I started, has been good memories. I will miss CPUT; it was awesome working for them.”
He has the following words of wisdom for younger staff members:
“First thing – always be on time for work. Go the extra mile even if that is not your responsibility – get the job done. Be helpful to colleagues where you can and to students. Take the opportunities that CPUT gives you. Stay focused on the task at hand and always be thankful for the job you have at CPUT."
Written by Ilse Fredericks
Email: Frederickskennediji@cput.ac.za
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