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Pictured: Professor Sudesh Rathilal, Executive Dean: Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at DUT with Mr Thabani Mazibuko, Chairman: South African Space Technology for Sustainable Development Foundation at the MoU signing ceremony.
He believes the four programme areas of space science show the potential of space exploration and the wide range of opportunities that are still untapped. Mazibuko indicated that these opportunities were indefinite and cannot be achieved when organisations are working in silos. He feels the exploration of more sectors in space science will benefit future generations as it will expose them to sectors that can absorb them into the workforce and entrepreneurship sector.
Sharing the message of support, Professor Katleho Moloi, Head of Department: Electrical Power and Engineering, commended alumnus, Mr Mazibuko for coming back to partner with DUT in exploring the field of space science. He referred to the Israel-Gaza conflict where it is said that drones are used to transport food and medicine to the people, saying space science has more to offer the world. Professor Moloi thanked Professor Ojo for his dedication in making this collaboration a reality and urged both parties to spread the news about the importance of understanding space science.
A Master of Engineering student and DUT Space Science and CNS Research Centre beneficiary, Ms Nompumelelo Chili, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the DUT Space Science and CNS Research Centre for the incredible support it provided to her and numerous other students.
“The dedication to advancing space science education has profoundly impacted my academic journey.Thanks to the resources, programmes and opportunities the DUT Space Science offers, I’ve deepened my understanding of space exploration and connected with passionate experts in the field. Space science support has not only enriched my education but has also inspired me to pursue my dreams and aspirations in the realm of space science,” shared Ms Chili.
She feels both organisations’ dedication to this MoU will help fuel the dreams of aspiring astronauts, scientists and space enthusiasts worldwide.
Sharing the same sentiments was Professor Rathilal. He said this collaboration was a great initiative that will see DUT using its education to capacitate the people of South Africa to understand that they live in a world of space science. Through collaborating, Professor Rathilal believes they will be able to reach a larger scale of people, which will lead to great things for the university and society.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile.
Simangele Zuma
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DUT EXCELLENCE 2024