By Nokwanda Ncwane
Durban University of Technology (DUT) student Nhlakanipho Ngwenya has signed with Betway Premiership club TS Galaxy FC, marking a major milestone in his football career.
Ngwenya, a final-year Diploma in Business and Information Management student, was officially unveiled as one of the club’s new signings over the weekend ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season.
Originally from Mayflower in Mpumalanga, Ngwenya joined DUT in 2024, where he quickly caught the attention of coaches during the University’s Freshers Cup. His impressive performances earned him a place in DUT FC, where he continued to excel.
During DUT’s maiden Varsity Football campaign, Ngwenya made history by scoring the University’s first-ever Varsity Football goals, including a memorable equaliser against defending champions Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
Beyond Varsity Football, he also played a key role in helping Upton Residence win the 2024 DUT Residence League title, highlighting the University’s residence sport programme as an important pathway for identifying and developing talented student-athletes.
Reflecting on his move to TS Galaxy, Ngwenya described the opportunity as the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.
“It feels like a dream come true. Those who know me know how long I’ve wanted to play in the Betway Premiership. Thanks to the Man above and the chairman of TS Galaxy for believing in me.”
Before joining TS Galaxy, Ngwenya also featured for Durban City FC, where he continued his development before earning a move to South Africa’s top-flight league.
Congratulating Ngwenya, DUT described his journey as a testament to how talent, opportunity and hard work can open doors for aspiring student-athletes.
“His rise from the Residence League to Varsity Football, then Durban City FC, and now the Betway Premiership showcases DUT’s growing contribution to the development of elite football talent in South Africa.”
The University added that Ngwenya’s achievement serves as an inspiration to students and aspiring footballers across the institution.
“His journey demonstrates the impact of university sport in creating pathways from campus football to the professional game. We wish him every success as he begins this exciting new chapter with TS Galaxy FC.”
Known as The Rockets, TS Galaxy compete in South Africa’s Betway Premiership, the country’s top-flight professional football league. The club finished eighth in the 2025/26 league season, collecting 32 points from 30 matches. Ngwenya’s signing forms part of the club’s preparations for the new campaign as they look to improve on last season’s performance.
