Page 14 - DUT 2025 Engagement Report Q1

curriculum that integrates EV concepts and create a study guide for EV-PBL design concepts within a module, ensuring students better understand the practical application of their classroom knowledge. Partners in this project include Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), CPUT, University of South Africa (UNISA), and Kings College.
Additionally, EBE has been tasked with developing two short courses for DEFY. The curriculum and study guides have been produced, focusing on advancements in engineering technology and artificial intelligence to support DEFY’s integration into the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).Another exciting project is the Design and Implementation of an Automated Solar Panel Cleaning System with a Water Recycling Unit Using a Linear Actuator Mechanism, which takes a project-based learning approach. This initiative involves interdepartmental collaboration with Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Power Engineering, and Electronic and Computer Engineering.
The Department of Mechanical Engineering is also involved in Tiger Brands’ ongoing Capstone Projects. Four projects have been outlined, and Mechanical Engineering is working to allocate these to students, giving them the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge. Tiger Brands is expected to gain confidence in presenting further challenges to academic institutions.
In an effort to enhance creativity and expand training opportunities, the Short Course Unit (SCU) has drafted a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Kershal Aviation for the rollout of an Executive Drone Regulatory short course. This includes training programmes accredited by the South African Civil Aviation Association (SACAA) for Remote Pilot Training (RPT) and Remote Maintenance Technician (RMT). A memorandum of understanding (MoA) has been developed and the project is set to begin once the MoA is finalized and approved.
3.5 COMMUNITY AND SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT
3.5.1 Community Outreach and Development Programmes
The Gcinamasiko Foundation and the Department of Arts and Culture collaborated with the FAD at DUT to host a full-day event commemorating International Mother Tongue Day in February 2025. This initiative sought to raise awareness about indigenous languages and encourage their use. The event was attended by Dr. Gcina Mhlophe, a DUT Honorary Doctoral recipient, along with students from the Faculty of Arts and Design, who actively participated in the celebration.
The IWWT is engaging with schools in and around Durban to deliver presentations on water treatment, wastewater management, and pollution awareness.These efforts are set to expand further through collaboration social partners to enhance educational outreach.
DUT has strengthened its community education initiatives through various outreach programmes, such as open-day events at PAX College and Durban High School (DHS), reinforcing the university’s influence in local schools.Additionally, the university has established a new community teaching site at Glenashley Junior Primary School, creating a comprehensive outreach network across university, secondary school, and primary school levels.
In collaboration with the Chinese Consulate in Durban and local communities, DUT successfully hosted two large-scale “Happy Chinese New Year” events and a Lantern Festival celebration, attracting over 2,000 attendees.The events featured traditional lion dances, folk music performances, Chinese language experiences, and tea culture demonstrations, receiving widespread acclaim.
12DURBAN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY