Page 9 - DUT Showcase Report 2023

WELBEDACHT IS A BEAUTIFUL PLACE!
The project, initiated by the Urban Futures Centre, addresses advocates for improvements like pocket parks.The University has
the social unrest and marginalization experienced in
KwaZulu-Natal following the July 2021 unrest. The project began with an engagement session in Welbedacht East, a community marginalized by poor service provision and economic hardship. Despite these challenges, residents have a strong sense of pride and community. The initiative aimed to record and celebrate Welbedacht’s rich history and social resilience through an exhibition held in March 2022, in collaboration with the Local History Museum. This project aligns with ENVISION2030 by exemplifying an engaged university that fosters meaningful partnerships with local communities, government, and civil society to support diversity, inclusion, and historical acknowledgment.
IMPACT AND SUSTAINABILITY
The UFC project has transformed the visibility and status of the Welbedacht East community, attracting attention from eThekwini Municipality, NGOs, university departments, and the media. This heightened awareness has led to the formation of the Welbedacht Civic Association, which now actively plans local events and
bolstered its reputation for community engagement and support, fostering stronger partnerships with local organizations and the city. Initiatives resulting from the project include addressing disability issues, organizing awareness events, and securing resources such as wheelchairs and walkers.The involvement of local Metro Police further supports and enhances the community’s development efforts.
Faculty: Engineering and the Built Environment Department: Urban Futures Centre Project Leader: Dr Sogen Moodley
Email: sogendrenm@dut.ac.za
Mobile: 083 259 0790
Project Team: Prof Monique Marks Email: moniquem@dut.ac.za