Page 16 - DUT 2025 Engagement Report Q2

2.5 INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
2.5.1 Collaborative Agreements with International Universities and Institutions
DUT is actively expanding its international academic collaborations across diverse fields.
Joint Projects and Initiatives: DUT is collaborating with Pundit D Energy University in India on a solar panel production project, providing valuable research experience for an MPhil Quality student.The Department of Public Relations and Communication successfully led a Collaborative Online International Learning project with Universidad Veracruzana in Mexico, titled “Digital Storytelling: Accessible Architectural Spaces in South Africa and Mexico.” This project, engaging DUT’s Postgraduate Diploma class in Critical Media Studies, concluded in May 2025. Furthermore, the department partnered with the University of Hamburg on a second COIL initiative, “Media and Communication in a Post-Colonial World:A Germany-South Africa Dialogue,” which was held virtually in May 2025 and involved 38 students.
FAI has established collaborative agreements with several international universities and institutions to promote knowledge exchange and global learning opportunities.A project with Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) is underway to train staff and students from Ghana in Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies. In addition, the Faculty maintains existing partnerships with universities in India and Malaysia, supporting ongoing international collaboration in research, teaching, and innovation.
Water Research and Innovation: The Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology has garnered international recognition for its groundbreaking research addressing global water challenges, promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible water management practices. Key collaborations include the BRICS STI project with Russian and Indian partners and the AJ-CORE project involving institutions from Japan and Kenya.
Urban Innovation and Entrepreneurship: DUT achieved a milestone by becoming the first African institution to host the prestigious Alliance of Guangzhou International Sister-City Universities Urban Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition. Spearheaded by the Technology Transfer and Innovation Unit, in collaboration with Innobiz DUT the 2025 competition was officially launched in April under the theme “Further Promoting Sustainable Urban Development.” This event provided a platform for DUT students to compete alongside peers from 28 universities across 23 countries, fostering innovation and entrepreneurial thinking.
Internet Governance and Digital Transformation: In partnership with the Moses Kotane Institute and the South African Internet Governance Forum, DUT hosted a pivotal three-day conference in May 2025. The Honourable Deputy Minister of Communications, Mr. Mondli Gungubele, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of national engagement around internet governance and digital transformation in South Africa.
Cultural and Academic Exchange: The Confucius Institute at DUT continues to strengthen cultural and academic exchange programs, notably through its collaboration with the Beijing Dance Academy. The CI facilitates student and faculty exchanges and plans to host the BDA Art Troupe in October 2025 for a cultural tour of South Africa, further enriching the cultural landscape of DUT and South Africa.
Dignitries from DUT, Ibn Tofail University, Universidad Tecnológica Empresarial de Guayaquil, Karadeniz Tecnical University, Gedik University, and Gebze Teknik Universitesi
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