The University of Zululand this week marked a major milestone with the unveiling of new state-of-the-art facilities at its Richards Bay campus and the naming of the Engineering Department in honour of the Minister of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Professor Blade Nzimande.
The new additions include a dedicated engineering building, 442 new beds, the refurbished Madiba House, and the Richards Bay Lodge.
DSTI said one of the highlights of the ceremony was recognising Minister Nzimande for his contribution to education and development.
Humbled by recognition
Humbled by the tribute, Nzimande reflected on his journey.
“As a boy from Dambuza, I never imagined that I would have my name inscribed on a university building.”
The minister also unveiled two other buildings. One is named after Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first democratic president. Another is named after Vuyani Cyril Gamede, a pioneering black engineer and former Chairperson of the University Council.
Delivering the keynote address, Nzimande said government’s investment in infrastructure was about more than access. It was about creating a world-class learning environment.
“We also hope that these investments will inspire our students and academics to not simply see themselves as consumers of the knowledge that is produced by others, but to also see themselves as knowledge producers in their own right.
“This, of course, resonates with your purpose and statement as a university. That of positioning yourself as ‘A Node for African Thought’,” he said.
Key industrial region
He stressed the importance of establishing an engineering department in the uMhlathuze District. And he noted the area’s industrial role as home to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest aluminium smelter. Also a major coal export terminal and significant operations in minerals, chemicals, and agro-processing.
“Through the Richards Bay port, this district is making a significant contribution in minerals and metals, chemicals, and agro-processing. All of [these] are key drivers of local economic development, job creation, skills development, technology transfer, and international trade,” he said.
Nzimande added that meeting these economic needs required technological skills and innovation. “Therefore, your decision to build this engineering department in this particular district is profoundly visionary.”
Preserve new facilities
He also called on students to protect the new facilities.
“You must never forget that these new buildings are for you and future generations. And you have a shared responsibility to make sure that they are well looked after. This is to make sure that, in a few years from now, the children of this area who are still in primary and high school can also come here to pursue their academic dreams.”
- SAnews.gov.za
