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logistics routing for improved efficiency. Through this initiative, students gain valuable industry exposure while contributing to practical solutions for environmental sustainability.
To bridge the gap between academia and industry, the EBE launched “Students Bridge the Gap: A Real-World Learning Experience.” A group of dedicated second and third-year geomatics students from the Department of Civil Engineering and Geomatics participated in a unique learning experience that combined academic knowledge with practical application in October 2024.The students engaged in a community project in Fawsley Park, a small farming community, to address the recurring flooding of the Zumbe stream, a tributary of the Umvoti River. This vital waterway frequently overflows during the rainy season, disrupting daily life and isolating portions of the community.To mitigate these effects, the students conducted a comprehensive survey of the river and its surroundings. The data they gathered was instrumental in informing the design of a much-needed bridge, demonstrating the direct impact of academic research on real-world challenges.
The Department of Industrial Engineering under EBE, has been actively involved in forging partnerships with the DTIC and the Durban Footwear and Leather Cluster.This collaboration includes the development of a funded graduate training program aimed at creating training and employment opportunities for young graduates while facilitating their placement within the sector. During the first quarter, efforts were focused on developing and submitting a project proposal to FP&M SETA and designing a sector-specific short course aligned with the graduate programme. The proposal was presented to FP&M SETA in February 2025. Additionally, a meeting with the Durban Cluster in March 2025, assessed the industry’s readiness for the placement programme and discussed short course requirements.The initiative has created numerous opportunities, including networking for staff, placement prospects for students, knowledge-sharing with industry partners, and ensuring sustained collaboration between all stakeholders. As proposals and funding are finalized, the programme is expected to expand across multiple disciplines within the faculty, with researchers being allocated to specific projects.
The Department of Town and Regional Planning under EBE is represented at the Project Steering Committee (PSC) for the review of the KwaZulu-Natal Spatial Planning Land Use Management (SPLUM) Bill. This role involves assisting KZN CoGTA in the development of the Bill, working alongside representatives from CoGTA, EDTEA, DALRRD, various municipalities, higher education institutions, private sector planning firms, and the Ingonyama Trust. Four workstreams have been established to guide the project: Literature Review, Framework, Regulations and Procedures, and Support and Consultation. The work remains ongoing, reinforcing the department’s role in shaping regional planning and land use policies.
The Department of Sport Studies under FAS is collaborating with SAIL South Africa to offer to the 3rd year students an 8 week Learn to Swim and Sail course. Sail South Africa will also introduce the students to Dragon Boat racing with the end result in the students being able to start a business to generate an income.Additionally, the department also has a collaboration with the Dolphins Cricket for first year students to complete a mini-cricket course.
The redesign of the SiyaHamba boat into an autonomous vessel, along with the research, design, and development of the SiyaH2amba Hydrogen Boat, is expected to drive new research projects and industry collaboration opportunities for both staff and students. These initiatives align with DUT’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, fostering interdisciplinary research in autonomous and hydrogen-powered marine technology.
3.4.3 Knowledge Transfer and Technology Commercialization Efforts
The Department of Mechanical Engineering under EBE is engaged in several collaborative projects linked to industry. One such initiative is the PBL-EV Project, where academics are working to provide students with real-world exposure in the electric vehicle (EV) sector.A symposium on “The Future of Engineering Education with CDIO” was attended in January 2025, at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). The project aims to develop a
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