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8. CONCLUSION
As the only Confucius Institute in KwaZulu-Natal, DUT’s CI made notable strides during Q2.Through the provision of Chinese language and cultural courses to the local community, the institute strengthened intercultural dialogue and global citizenship. Its collaborations with Chinese universities and partnerships with local enterprises have opened pathways for internships, job placements, and entrepreneurial ventures, reinforcing DUT’s internationalisation agenda.
The FMS progressed its engagement agenda through strategic initiatives, including the ongoing Engagement Roadshow across departments. Despite operational challenges, the faculty laid the groundwork for long-term partnerships and greater alignment with ENVISION2030.This deliberate approach enhances participation, streamlines processes, and sets the stage for an integrated, impactful engagement strategy moving forward.
The ICON continued to play a transformative role in advancing peacebuilding, social justice, and community resilience. Through youth leadership development, school peace clubs, and community dialogues, ICON supports systemic change aligned with national priorities and global development frameworks. Its integration of nonviolence into teaching, research, and community practice exemplifies DUT’s commitment to social transformation and responsible citizenship.
The IWWT remains a key driver of environmental sustainability and interdisciplinary research. By integrating emerging technologies, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and engaging communities, the Institute contributes meaningfully to ENVISION2030. Its outreach efforts including community education, rural engagement, and media advocacy, empower citizens to address water and sanitation challenges while advancing scientific innovation.
The TTI demonstrated commendable progress during Q2, expanding its impact through programmes focused on research commercialisation, IP awareness, student entrepreneurship, and innovation ecosystem development. Key initiatives, including the IP Filing Drive, industry roundtables, and entrepreneurship workshops have strengthened DUT’s innovation pipeline. Going forward, TTI aims to refine support systems, deepen stakeholder collaboration, and bolster DUT’s presence in the national innovation space.
The Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment continues to bridge academic excellence through engagement for social impact. In Q2, the faculty initiated several impactful projects that demonstrate how research and learning are shaping student experiences and driving social development. Despite resource
constraints, the faculty remains aligned with DUT’s strategic vision and the Sustainable Development Goals through its inclusive and forward-thinking practices.
The AARU also made a substantial contribution during Q2, exemplifying the importance of strategic partnerships in resource mobilisation. By securing over R6.8 million in donor support for bursaries, food security, and school engagement initiatives, the unit directly impacted student development and community upliftment. Additionally, the BankSETA-funded project amounting to R7.49 million, supported 74 students across two faculties.
The positive outcomes observed in the first half of 2025 reflect the university’s continued commitment to empowering students and supporting schools in urban, peri-urban, and rural contexts. By offering career guidance, curriculum support, and practical learning opportunities, DUT is equipping learners with the tools needed for academic advancement and lifelong success.
Looking ahead, DUT is well-positioned to build on these achievements. Plans to scale outreach efforts, deepen partnerships, and explore innovative engagement strategies will ensure that the university continues to meet community needs while advancing its engaged scholarship mission.
Collectively, these highlights underscore DUT’s unwavering commitment to transformation, innovation, and societal impact. As we move into the next quarter, the university remains focused on advancing inclusive education, strengthening community engagement, and achieving excellence across all dimensions of its mandate—embodying the spirit and vision of ENVISION2030.
The second quarter of the academic year was marked by significant achievements, impactful contributions, and meaningful engagements across the university. DUT remains steadfast in its commitment to excellence, community engagement, and visionary leadership in higher education. As we navigate ongoing challenges and embrace new opportunities, our dedication to the values and principles of ENVISION2030 continues to guide every initiative and strengthening our educational philosophy and deepening our societal impact.
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