The Durban University of Technology and the eThekwini Municipality leadership recently held a meeting to discuss ways to improve collaboration and co-operation between the two entities.
The meeting which took place early this month was convened by eThekwini Municipal Manager, Mr Sipho Nzuza. This was part of Nzuza’s CEO forum which is based on consultations aimed at improving customer service.
DUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thandwa Mthembu pointed out that traffic, appropriate student transport, street lighting and safety were still key areas where Municipality’s assistance would be welcomed. “Housing of students is also a challenge facing the University, which the eThekwini Municipality could assist with,” said Prof Mthembu.
Prof Mthembu pointed to three broad areas viz. University precinct i.e. the geographical area and its implications, research and innovation and socio-economic development, all of which constituted areas for continuous engagement and mutual benefit for DUT and the Municipality. Amongst other areas for research engagement, Prof Mthembu, mentioned the Oceans Economy, Waste Management and Environmental Greening.
Nzuza said that the eThekwini Municipality recognised DUT as an academic partner, as a key development actor, custodian of municipal services and an important contributor to city’s rates-base.
“The ultimate goal of this initiative is to mobilise top businesses to support the City Vision of becoming Africa’s most liveable and caring city by 2030. Forging successful partnerships in city development is vital towards the formulation of practical, implementable plans towards realising this vision. Furthermore, for eThekwini to develop a prosperous, diverse and an employment creation economy as advocated in the Integrated Development Plan 2017-2021, mobilising and lobbying critical businesses is a befitting approach,” said Nzuza.
Pictured: Seated- DCM Beryl Mphakathi, CM Sipho Nzuza, VC Prof Thandwa Mthembu, DVC (RIE) Prof Sibusiso Moyo
Standing- Collin Pillay, DCM Sipho Cele, Nomfundo Phetha, Prof Dasarath Chetty, Dr David Mohale, DCM Phil Mashoko, Dr Mpilo Ngubane.
Dasarath Chetty/Noxolo Memela
