Page 50 - DUT Annual Report 2024

0,550 0,500 0,450 0,400 0,350 0,300 0,250 0,200
0,481
0,363
0,410
0,337
0,233
0,324 0,303
2020 2021 Year
2018 2019
2022 2023 2024
Figure 20: Ratio of doctoral graduates to staff with doctorates
Figure 20 shows that the ‘productivity’ in terms of the doctoral students graduated per permanent instructional/research staff with a doctoral qualification has increased by almost 42.7% from 0.337 in 2023 to 0.481 in 2024. This is attributed to the 41% increase in doctoral graduates (from 83 to 117) in the period 2023 to 2024, concomitant with a 1.22% decrease in staff with doctorates (from 246 to 243).
RESEARCH, INNOVATION AND ENGAGEMENT
University Engagement around Research and Innovation
Engagement remains a cornerstone of the Durban University of Technology (DUT)’s vision, driving the University’s mission to create a lasting impact at local, national, and global levels. In 2024 DUT deepened its commitment to meaningful collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, fostering a dynamic exchange of knowledge, ideas, and innovation. These partnerships enrich decision-making, broaden perspectives, and enhance the DUT’s ability to address complex challenges through collective expertise.
As a leader in research, innovation, and societal transformation, the DUT continues to integrate engagement across all facets of academic life. From interdisciplinary collaborations to entrepreneurial initiatives, the University’s engagement efforts are shaping new frontiers in scholarship, industry partnerships, and community-driven solutions. This holistic approach not only strengthens academic excellence but also accelerates the DUT’s role as a catalyst for change.
The 2024 report highlights the tangible impact of these engagements, demonstrating their contribution to the Strategic Objectives of ENVISION2030. By embedding engagement within research, teaching, and innovation, DUT reaffirms its commitment to producing knowledge that is not only academically rigorous but also socially responsive, ensuring a meaningful and sustainable impact on the communities it serves.
The DUT has seen significant growth, with 740.00 (subject to DHET verification) research publication units in Q4 2024, primarily from journal articles (585.00 units), followed by conference proceedings (75.00 units) and books/chapters (80.00 units). Over the past five years the research subsidy increased steadily, reaching 585.00 units in 2024, with a 92.7% approval rate for publication submissions. In the last quarter of 2024 DUT secured 66 National Research Foundation (NRF) Master’s and doctoral scholarships totalling R10,646,176, with a gender-balanced distribution. NRF ratings rose by 10.9% from 2023, with a 61 researchers head-count for year 2024. The University is focused on expanding research funding, improving grant application success rates, and boosting research output in line with its ENVISION2030 strategic goals.
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DUT ANNUAL REPORT 2024
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