In a noteworthy collaborative initiative, the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics (FAI) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently played host to Toyota South Africa at the Ritson campus. The engagement session marked a pivotal moment in fostering a dynamic partnership between academia and industry for mutual benefit, with a planned commencement in 2024 and prospects for a long-term collaboration.

In attendance was the Executive Dean: Professor Oludayo Olugbara, Deputy Dean: Professor Matthys Swanepoel, Head of Departments: Professor Nalen Naicker, Dr Maggie Masenya, guest from Toyota: Mr Jeremy Hammond, Executive Secretary to the Dean: Ms. Lebogang Phasha, FAI Technician: Mrs Ugeshni Moodley, Lecturers: Dr Seena Joseph, Dr Sulaiman Patel, Professor Mogiveny Rajkoomar, Dr Prinavin Govender and Faculty Research Officer: Mr Sboniso Mjaja.

The event kicked off with a warm welcome address and the introduction of faculty executive members by Professor Matthys Swanepoel, the Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics. As the participants gathered, there was a palpable sense of anticipation for the discussions that would unfold during the day.

The highlight of the engagement session was a comprehensive walkabout to showcase the faculty’s world-class laboratories. This hands-on experience allowed the Toyota South Africa delegates to witness firsthand the cutting-edge facilities and infrastructure available for collaborative projects.

Following the walkabout, Professor Oludayo Olugbara, the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, took to the stage to present the Engineering Practice Innovation Project (EPIP). Professor Olugbara’s presentation shed light on the innovative projects and initiatives undertaken by the faculty, setting the stage for the potential synergies that could be realised through collaboration with Toyota South Africa.

The agenda proceeded with a presentation from Professor Nalen Naicker, the Head of Department: Information Systems. Professor Naicker outlined the existing engagement between Toyota South Africa and the Durban University of Technology, providing insights into ongoing initiatives and collaborative efforts in the realm of technology.

The session gained further depth with a presentation from Toyota South Africa’s representative, Mr J Hammond, who delved into the company’s perspective on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and its specific needs. Mr Hammond’s insights into the 4IR landscape opened avenues for discussions on how academia and industry can collaborate to address the evolving requirements of the automotive sector.

The engagement session concluded with a robust discussion facilitated by Professor Swanepoel. Participants actively exchanged ideas, exploring potential areas of collaboration, and outlining actionable steps to forge a strong partnership between DUT and Toyota South Africa.

Commenting on the collaborative prospects, the Toyota South Africa delegate said: “We are excited about the possibilities that this engagement brings. The innovative projects and capabilities showcased by the Durban University of Technology’s Faculty of Accounting & Informatics align seamlessly with our vision for the future. We look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership that not only addresses our immediate needs but also contributes to the advancement of technology and knowledge.”

DUT’s commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry was evident throughout the engagement session. “This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to providing our students with real-world exposure and fostering an environment where academic research and industrial applications can seamlessly converge,” said Prof Olugbara.

As the DUT and Toyota South Africa embark on this collaborative journey, the stage is set for a symbiotic relationship that leverages academic expertise and industrial innovation for the betterment of both institutions and the broader community. The engagement session has laid a solid foundation for a promising partnership that is poised to make a meaningful impact in the realms of engineering, information systems, and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Pictured: A guest from Toyota South Africa, Mr Jeremy Hammond during the engagement session.

Siphokazi Dlamini