A significant meeting took place between the Durban University of Technology (DUT) Community Engagement, the DUT Confucius Institute, and the DUT Enterprise Risk Management Office, alongside the Mahlabathini CMC and James Nxumalo Agricultural High School in Ulundi on 7 February 2025. The purpose of this meeting was to establish a mutually beneficial partnership aimed at enhancing education and promoting agricultural studies for both teachers and learners.
The collaboration will focus on improving the quality of education at James Nxumalo Agricultural High School, with a special emphasis on introducing innovative agricultural practices, such as mushroom farming and ginseng grass cultivation. These agricultural projects are expected to equip learners with valuable skills, opening doors for future careers in agriculture.
Additionally, the Confucius Institute announced its intention to offer top-performing learners from James Nxumalo Agricultural High School an opportunity to study abroad as exchange students at the University of Fujian Agricultural and Forestry, providing them with international exposure in the agricultural field.
The Enterprise Risk Management Office also extended its support to the Mahlabathini CMC, offering to assist with professional risk management strategies. The Office will conduct workshops for principals across the six circuits in the Mahlabathini area. These workshops aim to assist school leaders to develop risk profiles, improving the management and operation of schools and ultimately addressing some challenges that contribute to school underperformance.
Ms Xoliswa Cele the Chief Education Specialist from the Mahlabathini CMC emphasized the importance of equipping school leaders, particularly principals, with the knowledge and tools necessary to implement effective strategic plans. She pointed out that the lack of clear answers as to why some schools fail to meet expectations often stems from insufficient risk management and strategic planning.
“We need to train school leaders to better understand how to manage risk and implement strategic goals. This is essential in improving school performance,” said Ms Cele.
The DUT team expressed their excitement about the partnership, which they hope will benefit the entire community by advancing agricultural education and enhancing leadership capabilities within local schools. Further meetings are planned to finalize the details of these promising partnerships.
Pictured: DUT team with the Mahlabathini CMC team at the James Nxumalo Agricultural High School.
Phumeza Msongelwa
