A delegation from the Durban University of Technology (DUT), led by Professor Fulufhelo Netswera, Executive Dean in the Faculty of Management Sciences, recently visited the University of Ibadan (UI) in Nigeria, where they were welcomed by the institution’s senior leadership. The visit marked the beginning of a promising partnership aimed at strengthening research collaborations, academic exchange and strategic alliances between the two universities.

The DUT delegation was received by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor P. O. Olapegba FNPA, along with Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Aderonke M. Baiyeroju, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation & Strategic Partnerships), Professor Oluyemisi A. Bamgbose, SAN, FCIArb, and Registrar, Mr. G.O. Saliu, MANUPA, MNIM, MAUA, as well as Deans and other senior executives from UI. Their warm reception underscored the spirit of unity and collaboration that both institutions aspire to cultivate.

Speaking during the session, Professor Netswera highlighted the purpose of the visit, emphasising DUT’s commitment to international partnerships that drive impactful research and meaningful academic exchange. He spoke about the value of collaboration in addressing global challenges and harnessing the strengths of both institutions to advance higher education on the African continent.

Professor Olapegba shared a brief history of the University of Ibadan, Africa’s first university and a beacon of academic excellence. He expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, reinforcing UI’s dedication to promoting global alliances that enrich the academic experience for students and researchers.

The highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between DUT and UI. Signed by Professor Netswera and Professor Olapegba, this agreement cemented the commitment to collaborate on research initiatives, faculty and student exchanges and innovative academic programmes that will benefit communities in South Africa, Nigeria and beyond.

Following the formal signing ceremony, Deans and Heads of Departments (HODs) from both universities engaged in extensive discussions, aligning research priorities and identifying key areas for collaboration. These robust exchanges laid the foundation for actionable steps that will drive innovation, academic excellence and industry partnerships.

As DUT and UI embark on this journey together, the partnership promises to open new avenues for knowledge exchange, groundbreaking research and cross-cultural learning experiences. The visit not only signified a formal agreement but also a shared vision of African universities working together to shape a brighter future through education, research and innovation.

Pictured: The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between DUT and UI.

Alan Khan