The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the eThekwini Municipality, formalising a three-year partnership aimed at driving strategic research, resource sharing and promoting life-long learning.

The signing ceremony at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) today (Friday, 26 September 2025) was led by the Mayor of Durban, His Worship Councillor Cyril Xaba, alongside Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement (RIE) at DUT. The agreement also brought together academic partners from Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), UNISA and Stellenbosch University, underscoring the collective commitment of higher education institutions to work hand in hand with local government.

The collaboration with the City and the Municipal Institute of Learning (MILE) reflects DUT’s focus of creating research with societal impact, strengthening ties between academia and government and to tackle complex urban challenges.

Addressing the guests, Professor Nemavhola said: “As DUT, there are a number of areas that we want to work with the City. One of those areas is the City University Living Labs. The second is Data for Public Good. The third is Innovation for Inclusive Growth and the fourth is the Skills Pipeline and Municipal Talent Compact. The world is changing and there is a need for re-skilling and new knowledge. It’s an area that we as DUT want to partner with the City.”

His Worship the Mayor, Councillor Xaba, welcomed the partnership, noting that the agreement will enable the eThekwini Municipality to leverage academic expertise while creating opportunities for innovation, capacity building and shared solutions that will benefit communities across Durban.

This three-year MOA is set to pave the way for impactful projects, advancing knowledge, skills development and sustainable growth, while reinforcing Durban’s position as a hub of research excellence, learning and collaboration.

Pictured: Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement (RIE) at DUT, Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola at the signing ceremony.

Alan Khan