The Department of Chemical Engineering at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), in collaboration with the Technology Transfer and Innovation (TTI) unit, recently participated in a Green Hydrogen Production engagement at Thekwini TVET College, Melbourne Campus. The initiative is designed to strengthen skills and advance research within the TVET sector.
Dr Emmanuel Tetteh, Senior Lecturer and Principal Investigator of the Green Engineering Research Group (GERG), delivered insights on Academic and Research Strides in Hydrogen Production and Technology, highlighting an ongoing green hydrogen funded project supported by the South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI) and its contribution to South Africa’s sustainable energy transition.
Sharing the significance of the initiative, Dr Tetteh said that the engagement aims to strengthen collaborative efforts towards advancing the Green Hydrogen Roadmap, particularly in supporting capacity development at TVET colleges as part of the research drive in KwaZulu Natal. He added that sharing knowledge with collaborators helps to foster stronger research capabilities that will address the growing need for skills in hydrogen research.
Dr Tetteh emphasised that the initiative will not be a once off. He noted that once the demonstrator systems become fully operational, DUT intends to open its facilities to students and staff from partnering TVET colleges, creating greater opportunities for practical training and collaboration.
The goal is to provide a real time learning experience beyond theoretical knowledge. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe firsthand how hydrogen energy is produced through sustainable methods, how it is captured and stored, and how it can be utilised across various applications within the green economy.
Nonhlanhla Ntombela, Sanelisiwe Dietsela, and Nqobile Mkhize, all from the Department of Chemical Engineering, were also part of the visiting team at the Thekwini TVET Green Hydrogen Energy initiative.
Ntombela highlighted the value of such initiatives, noting that they play a crucial role in enhancing research skills, fostering networking opportunities, and broadening knowledge through stakeholder engagement. She said that engaging with knowledgeable individuals and diverse stakeholders broadens one’s perspective and encourages researchers to share their work and seek exposure.
Key organisations in attendance included the Department of Higher Education and Training, the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority, and the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority.
This collaboration brought together national and international stakeholders to strengthen research partnerships, share expertise, and advance innovation in the green hydrogen sector.
Pictured: Attendees at the Green Hydrogen Production engagement at Thekwini TVET College, Melbourne Campus.
Vukani Langa
