The International Week 2025 hosted by International Education and Partnerships Directorate at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) is currently underway, with esteemed guest from across the world. Taking place from the 28 to 30 July 2025 at Ritson Campus, Hotel school, the aim is to advance the institution’s commitment to comprehensive and inclusive internationalisation as outlined in the DUT Global Strategy 2025-2030.
This event aligns with DUT’s ENVISION 2030 strategy, which emphasises the development of adaptive graduates capable of thriving in diverse global settings. The International Week also serves as a platform to showcase DUT’s progress in internationalisation and to foster dialogue on critical issues in higher education internationalisation, with a particular focus on the African context.
Faculty of Management Sciences Executive Dean, Professor Fulufhelo Netswera officially welcomed the attendees,, effectively setting the tone for a productive and engaging day. He energised the audience, paving the way for meaningful discussions and interactions.
Day one of the event focused on comprehensive approaches to internationalisation in higher education, featuring sessions on inclusive internationalisation strategies and holistic higher education partnerships. These discussions were framed within the context of the Africa Agenda 2063 and the Africa Charter for Transformative Research Collaborations, emphasising the need for equitable and mutually beneficial partnerships that amplify African voices in global higher education discourse.
In his opening plenary, IEP Director at DUT, Dr Lavern Samuels unpacked definition of ‘ Inclusive, Comprehensive and Holistic Approaches to Internalisation in Higher Education’
“Internationalisation of higher education is a critical and comparative process of the study of the world and its complexities, past and present inequalities and injustices, and possibilities for a more equitable and just future for all, Through teaching, learning, research and engagement, internationalisation fosters epistemic plurality and integrates critical, antiracist, anti-hegemonic learning about the world from diverse global perspectives to enhance the quality and relevance of education (Heleta and hasi, 2022),” he explained. Day one also showcased keynote speaker Professor Arindam Das.
Dr Precious Simba from Stellenbosch University delivered the keynote address on Day two of the International Week 2025 at the DUT, focusing on Academic Xenophobia and International Collaboration. Her presentation highlighted the importance of addressing xenophobia in academic settings, promoting inclusivity and collaboration among students and researchers from diverse backgrounds.
Amongst the attendees was Dr Onur Kulaç from Pamukkale University in Turkey, Professor Suren Singh : Executive Dean of Faculty of Applied Sciences, Professor Sudesh Rathilal : Executive Dean of Faculty of Engineering and Built environment.
The panel discussion moderated by Interim Director for Research and Postgraduate Support Directorate Dr Nomcebo Mthombeni featured esteemed panelists, Professor Chika Sehoole from University of Pretoria (UP), Professor Patricio Langa: founder of the African Consortium of Higher Education Researchers (ACHER) in Ghana, and Professor Netswera, with the topic based on the ‘Future of Internationalisation of Higher Education in Africa’.
In his closing remarks, Dr Samuels praised the panelists for unpacking a complex question, noting that gazing into the crystal ball of the future is never easy. He expressed gratitude to the audience for their deep engagement over the two-day event, appreciating both the academic discourse and practical approaches to internationalising higher education. Dr Samuels emphasised that internationalisation and approaches to higher education are inextricably linked, requiring a collaborative approach. He highlighted the importance of faculty relationships in driving successful internationalisation, citing the active participation of Deans in the panel discussion as a testament to the strong relationships at DUT.
Pictured: Attendees at the International Week 2025.
Thubelihle Dumakude/Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
