The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has appointed Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement. Professor Nemavhola took office as DVC: RIE on Tuesday, 1 August 2023.
Prof. Nemavhola is a distinguished academic and visionary leader in the field of engineering and research, with an impressive career spanning several renowned institutions. He has made significant contributions to academia, research and innovation. Prior to this appointment, Prof Nemavhola served a year as the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) at DUT.
He has a Bachelor of Science (BSc) Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of the Witwatersrand which he obtained in 2006. This was followed by a Master of Science (Mechanical Engineering) from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2008. Prof. Nemavhola holds a PhD in Cardiothoracic Biomechanics (Mechanical) Engineering from the University of Cape Town, which was achieved in 2016.
The DUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thandwa Mthembu, writing in the July 2023 edition of Iminingo, made the formal announcement of Prof. Nemavhola’s appointment.
“Following a painstaking, transparent and rigorous recruitment process that some of our people and structures participated in, I am happy to announce that on 24 June 2023, Council resolved to appoint Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement, with effect from 1 August 2023. Professor Nemavhola needs no introduction to the DUT community, having been with us from 1 August 2022 as Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment,” said Prof Mthembu.
Giving a brief background on himself, Prof Nemavhola revealed that he was born and raised in Phadzima (Dzumbathoho) Village, in the rural part of Limpopo. Prof Nemavhola attended rural schools, Tondani Primary School and Humbelani Secondary School. Despite his family background, his academic journey reflects his relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep commitment to advancing knowledge in his field.
Professor Nemavhola, who has a wealth of practical experience, is a registered Professional Engineer with the Engineering Council of South Africa and a Chartered Engineer with the Engineering Council United Kingdom. These credentials speak to his expertise, professionalism and dedication to maintaining the highest standards in his profession.
His illustrious career includes leadership positions at esteemed institutions. Prior to joining DUT as Executive Dean: Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, he served as the Director of the School of Engineering at the University of South Africa, where he led with distinction, steering the department towards excellence and fostering a culture of innovation.
Throughout his career, Prof. Nemavhola has made substantial contributions to research and scholarship. Recognised as a C-Rated Scholar by the National Research Foundation (NRF), his work has been widely acknowledged for its quality and impact. He has published over 80 research articles including books, demonstrating his dedication to advancing knowledge and contributing to the academic community. Moreover, he has supervised numerous postgraduate students, guiding and mentoring them as they pursue their own scholarly endeavours.
Prof. Nemavhola’s reputation extends beyond his academic achievements. He is a respected member of South Africa’s Young Academy of Sciences, showcasing his influential role in shaping the research landscape and contributing to the nation’s scientific advancement. His involvement in professional organisations and networks reflects his commitment to fostering collaborations and strengthening partnerships.
“I was happy but at the same time knowing fully well that this is going to be a huge responsibility. An overwhelming wave of emotions rushed through me. Elation, pride and a sense of accomplishment blended with excitement and a hint of nervousness. This was a dream come true, a validation of my years of dedication to academia and my passion for driving positive change through research and innovation. The opportunity to lead and shape the future of an institution, foster ground-breaking research and cultivate strong partnerships with the community and industry, felt both humbling and empowering,” said Prof Nemavhola, sharing his reaction to his new appointment.
Amongst his plans, the newly appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement intends to initiate a targeted recruitment drive to attract and retain qualified doctoral staff members, emphasizing the importance of research excellence in the selection process. Simultaneously, to work with relevant stakeholders to establish a robust promotion policy that rewards research achievements and encourages faculty members to engage in high-quality research.
His appointment at DUT signifies a new era of innovation and academic excellence. With his expertise, dedication and vision, he will undoubtedly shape the university’s research landscape and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and societal impact.
DUT extends its warmest wishes to Professor Nemavhola, as he embarks on this exciting chapter of his career. May his journey be marked by continued success, fulfilment and ground-breaking contributions to the field of research and innovation.
Pictured: The new Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement at DUT, Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola.
Simangele Zuma
