The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Ms Nomalungelo Gina, has reaffirmed government's commitment to partnering with the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) to transform its innovation ecosystem, scale industry-focused research, and drive socio-economic progress across KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa.

UNIZULU's Vision 2027 Strategic Plan commits it to scaling up industry-related research and innovation and calls for the transfer of the institution's innovations to its communities through entrepreneurship and commercialisation.

During a meeting held yesterday at the KwaDlangezwa campus, the Deputy Minister engaged with the University's Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation, Prof. Nokuthula Kunene, and a team of distinguished academics.

The discussions centred on fostering robust partnerships between the university and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) to expand the impact of the institution's research and innovation ecosystem.

Prof. Kunene emphasised the university's commitment to African-centred development through its strategic plan.

"With our 2022-2027 strategic plan, the University of Zululand has positioned itself as the Node for African Thought. This notion recognises us as a university of Africa for Africa, integrally connected to African issues. It ensures that our thinking aligns with the centrality of research and innovation as drivers of Africa's development," she said.

The meeting discussed UNIZULU's strategic innovation and technology transfer projects, which include the establishment of several centres, including for plant valorisation, African medicine, green nano-technology, green hydrogen research, food technology, and entrepreneurship. These initiatives are intended to be powerful catalysts for economic transformation and social progress in the province and beyond.

The Deputy Minister highlighted the importance of leveraging science to uplift local communities.

Prof. Thulani Jili from the university's Department of Physics unveiled UNIZULU's plans to build and optical telescope and astronomical observatory on KwaNtoza Mountain, 9 000 m above sea level. This will also equip the university to build capacity in astronomy.

"The observatory will bring more young black South Africans into the scarce-skills field of astronomy, especially because it is located in a previously disadvantaged rural community," said Prof. Jili.

It will also enable the collection and analysis of big data from various optical and radio telescopes such as the MeerKAT and the Square Kilometre Array in the Karoo, and position the university as a leader in astronomy and astrophysics research in the region.

Mr Takalani Nemaungani, Chief Director: Astronomy at the DSTI, expressed his delight at the initiative and the opportunity to strengthen collaboration to develop world-class astronomy capabilities in KwaZulu-Natal.

"Our commitment extends beyond the establishment of infrastructure. We aim to democratise access to astronomy research, promote youth participation, and increase the involvement of women in this exciting field. This project has the potential to make a lasting impact on the region's academic and socio-economic landscape, and we are excited to support its realisation," he said.

The meeting also explored strategies to activate the entire research and innovation value chain at the university, strengthen knowledge transfer and enhance students' employability.

Deputy Minister Gina underscored the importance of sustained collaboration.

"By working together, we can identify strategic areas for collaboration, leverage our resources, and make informed decisions that create meaningful change. This is about equipping the University of Zululand to compete globally while transforming lives locally. I am excited about the potential of our shared efforts to create an enduring legacy of progress for the region and the country at large," she said.

UNIZULU and the DSTI will be exploring ways to collaborate on strategic projects, but both expressed commitment to working together to secure resources, strengthen the university's research capabilities, foster regional innovation, and contribute significantly to local economic transformation and social upliftment.

Issued by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.

For more information, contact Veronica Mohapeloa at 083 400 5750 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..