The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has been formally accepted as a signatory of the Magna Charta Universitatum (MCU) 2020, marking a significant milestone in its Living Values Framework (LVF) journey. The official signing ceremony will take place at King’s College London on Thursday, 13 November 2025, where DUT will join an esteemed global community of institutions committed to the fundamental values that underpin quality higher education.
Originally signed by 388 university leaders on 18 September 1988 to commemorate the 900th anniversary of the University of Bologna, the Magna Charta Universitatum champions the enduring principles of academic freedom and institutional autonomy. In 2020, a revised version of the Magna Charta was adopted to reflect the global, technological and political shifts that have reshaped the role of universities. Importantly, the updated charter retains the core values that were detailed in the original, while also acknowledging universities’ wider local responsibilities and the increasing global nature of their work. DUT’s inclusion as a signatory is announced as the Magna Charta Observatory (MCO) continues its work to uphold and expand the impact of the MCU.
For DUT, becoming a signatory represents more than a symbolic recognition, it affirms the University’s dedication to its values and principles as defined in the ENVISION2030 strategy. This is a proud and defining moment for DUT. Becoming a signatory of the Magna Charta Universitatum strengthens the university’s global partnerships and affirms DUT’s unwavering commitment to the values that shape research, teaching, learning and engagement.
For DUT, this collaborative environment will serve as a rich resource in strengthening its own practices of value-based leadership and responsible research and innovation.
To view more information about the Magna Charta Universitatum and its signatories, please visit: https://www.magna-charta.org.
Alan Khan
