The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has achieved another milestone in its commitment to impactful research and advancing socio-economic development, with the recent awarding of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Research Chair by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). The announcement was made by SAQA CEO, Ms Nadia Starr, highlighting DUT’s strategic alignment with national priorities through its ENVISION2030 strategy.

Ms Starr acknowledged the significant support structures and resources that DUT has pledged to ensure the success of the NQF Research Chair. This includes substantial co-funding commitments, cutting-edge research infrastructure and extensive access to academic networks, all of which demonstrate DUT’s dedication to making a meaningful impact in South Africa’s research landscape.

“The alignment of the NQF Research Chair with DUT’s strategic goals underscores our confidence in DUT’s capability to drive research that contributes to the socio-economic progress of South Africa,” said Starr.

Commenting on the NQF Research Chair, Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement at DUT said: “We are deeply honoured by the establishment of the NQF Research Chair at our institution. This Chair represents a pivotal step forward in advancing our research focus on educational quality and inclusivity, building an interdisciplinary platform for innovative approaches to quality assurance, Recognition of Prior Learning, and accessible articulation pathways. Aligned with DUT’s ENVISION2030 strategy and in collaboration with SAQA, this initiative will help us address South Africa’s evolving educational and socio-economic needs by contributing research that drives policy development, supports postgraduate students and emerging scholars, and strengthens lifelong learning pathways. We are committed to fostering a research environment that bridges regional and global standards and delivers meaningful, sustainable socio-economic benefits for South Africa.”

The NQF Research Chair, funded in alignment with the National Research Foundation (NRF) South African Research Chairs Programme, is set to receive sustainable financial backing, reinforcing DUT’s capacity and ability to lead research initiatives that shape the future of education and skills development in the country.

Pictured: DUT Steve Biko campus in Durban.

Alan Khan