The Research Services Unit (RSU) at Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI) and the Department of Information and Corporate Management (ICM) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently hosted a robust Business Breakfast in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA).
The business breakfast took place at the MKRI Building in Stamford Hill, Durban where more than 100 ‘think tanks’ came together from government, academia, industry and funding institutions. They tackled discussions pertaining to enhancing collaborative research, skills development and innovation for economic growth.
Giving more insight into the importance of collaboration between research institutions and industry to create impactful, community-focused solutions was the keynote speaker MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), Rev. Musa Zondi. He highlighted the growing importance of applied research in helping government and industry navigate challenges such as digital transformation, the fifth industrial revolution skills, and rural economic development.
“Let us use this business breakfast not just to raise ideas, but to agree on interventions we will implement together from practical, targeted partnerships that leave a legacy. This is not just about skills development; it is about social justice, economic dignity, and unlocking the full potential of KwaZulu-Natal’s youth. MKRI and DUT have already demonstrated that they can work together to implement strategic projects, so we need more of these. Together, let us ensure that when a young person finishes their studies in our province, they are not left knocking on closed doors, but are welcomed into an economy that sees their worth and needs their contribution,” he said.
Adding to the conversation was Dr Thandeka Ellenson, Chief Executive Officer at the Moses Kotane Research Institute.
Her talk relayed to the human resource development (HRD) strategy and skills plan, placing a strong emphasis on foundational learning, vocational and occupational skills, entrepreneurship and innovation.
Delving further on this vital topic was Executive Dean of the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Professor Oludayo O. Olugbara.
His topic of discussion looked at the transformative education paradigm for industry-based skills training. He highlighted some of the issues facing the education system which entails escalating costs, economic injustice, and inaccessibility to quality training.
“The average job posting in South Africa received about 250 applications, but 75% of applicants. are unqualified for the job, while 88% are not strong enough for an interview,” he said.
Prof Olugbara shared more on DUT’s exciting Engineering Practice Innovation Project (EPIP), focusing from knowledge-based learning to skill-oriented education.
“EPIP is our contribution to the implementation of the DUT philosophy of education. It will inspire the development of talents and provide opportunities to address real-world challenges, preparing students to thrive in the workforce and beyond,” he said.
The business breakfast concluded with panel discussions and knowledge exchange sessions promoting partnerships and skills transfer while positioning DUT and MKRI as leading venues for these academic and developmental events.
Pictured: MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), Rev. Musa Zondi.
Waheeda Peters
