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27 DUT Excellence 2025 | Semester 1include group projects, challenge-based, service-based learning and problem-solved processes, new understanding of social innovation in addition to technological innovation that resemble the effective techniques they saw throughout the programme.%u201cOur ultimate goal is to initiate a more extensive conversation on curriculum innovation and international cooperation at DUT, establishing the foundation for upcoming collaborations and exchanges. We aim to develop our learners as future change agents and enable them to adapt to change and build resilience. We aim to help them develop new competencies in a changing world and develop metacognitive skills,%u201d said Dr Maome.They expressed interest in establishing a similar Erasmus+ exchange programme in Durban %u2013 positioned as the %u2018Heart of Africa %u2013 to bridge academia and society. This would involve international students serving as cultural ambassadors of Durban in their home countries, promoting sustainable tourism and fostering connections with local initiatives and businesses. The concept draws inspiration from the %u2018Pioneering Practice: Erasmus Ambassadors and Erasmus Looks%u2019 presented by the Provincial Chair of Huelva, positioning Huelva as a cultural hub in the heart of Europe.Reflecting on the challenges faced during this expedition, language was initially a significant obstacle, which they overcame by attending beginner Spanish classes, using translation apps and relying on their hosts%u2019 patience and friendliness. On a professional level, adjusting to new academic structures demanded flexibility. However, open communication helped bridge these gaps effectively.Their understanding of the importance of international intellectual interchange has been radically expanded. It confirmed that interactions across cultures enhance both professional and personal development. They acknowledge that these interactions are essential for developing networks that go far beyond the boundaries of the specific institution. They encourage innovation and future local tertiary education planning by keeping abreast of challenges and threats such as new technologies, de-globalisation, rising global conflicts and shifts in policy priorities-public spending and worldwide responses and developments in education. The value of accepting diversity in academic settings has been emphasised, which helps to create more dynamic and inclusive learning environments globally.The team toured historical sites such as Muelle de las Carabelas in La Arabida, Christopher Columbus%u2019s expedition for the East Indies and the Americas in 1492, and museums such as the Huelva Museum, which was a highlight as it enhanced their understanding of Spain%u2019s rich cultural legacy. Through cultural outings such as their visit to Do%u00f1ana National Park and the dunes, fauna and flora and El Rocio, they had a chance to engage with the local community outside of the university setting.%u201cWe also had the opportunity to directly experience local dance, music and cuisine, such as the welcome drink hosted by the University of Huelva that we enjoyed at %u2018El Desembarque De La Ria%u2019 (Paseo de Le Ria, Kiosco I) and at the dinner, a flamenco show and Mobility Documents Ceremony held at Casa Hemandad de Emigrantes,%u201d said Dr Womack.The programme has paved the way for several exciting partnerships. The trio has explored possible partnership prospects such as webinar participation, international advisory board members%u2019 meeting invitations and guest lectureships. They have started discussions about collaborative research projects to support initiatives for remote learning, one of which is centred on the use of digital tools in education.%u201cWe have started emailing academics at the University of Huelva and at other universities that attended the International Staff Mobility Exchange Programme as well as international officers from the various represented universities to establish possible collaboration, COIL/Virtual Exchange, supervision, co-supervision, external examiners of master%u2019s and PhDs, joint research and copublications,%u201d said Mr Ojageer.Zandile Mahlobo