A senior delegation from the Durban University of Technology (DUT) has embarked on a strategic visit to West Africa, engaging with universities in Nigeria and Ghana to establish key partnerships, promote academic programmes and highlight research and postgraduate opportunities. The visit also serves to showcase the DUT Business School as a premier institution for business education and leadership development on the African continent and afford members of the DUT delegation with opportunities, to make several research and academic presentations and deliver guest lectures at host universities.

The DUT delegation commenced their visit at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) in Nigeria. As a mark of respect and cultural appreciation, the team first paid a courtesy visit to the palace of His Royal Majesty, King Alayeluwa Oba (Dr.) Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III. The delegation expressed their gratitude for the warm welcome and the opportunity to engage with institutions within the King’s kingdom.

Professor Elisabeta Smaranda Olarinde, Acting Vice-Chancellor and Professor of Law at ABUAD, extended a gracious and kind welcome to the DUT representatives and formally introduced them to His Majesty. Dr Lavern Samuels, speaking on behalf of DUT, then officially presented the delegation to His Majesty the King and outlined the purpose of the visit.

As a token of appreciation, Professor Fulufhelo Netswera, Executive Dean in the Faculty of Management Sciences at DUT, presented a special gift to the King, thanking him for his hospitality. In his address, His Majesty the King reflected on the enduring legacy of South African icons President Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, acknowledging their contributions to humanity. He also conveyed his deep appreciation for DUT’s recognition of AARE Afe Babalola and the university’s role in advancing education and research.

In a symbolic gesture of friendship and goodwill, the delegation was honoured with traditional attire, signifying a warm and respectful welcome from the Royal Palace.

Speaking about this important opportunity for DUT, Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement said, “This visit marks a significant step in strengthening ties between DUT and leading institutions in West Africa, aligning with ENVISION2030’s strategic objectives of leveraging innovation, research and collaboration to address local, African and global challenges. By advancing cross-border knowledge exchange and meaningful academic partnerships, DUT continues to position itself as a leader in pan-African cooperation. The upcoming engagements in Ghana further reinforce DUT’s commitment to international collaboration, driving impactful research and advancing the shared objective of African-led solutions for a sustainable future.”

Pictured: DUT delegation meeting with His Royal Majesty, King Alayeluwa Oba (Dr.) Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III.

Alan Khan