On 18 March, the Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) briefed the MUT community on what AIMday is about and solicited their participation. The announcement was made to the MUT community by Dr Anette Mienie, MUT’s Research Director, on behalf of Interim Vice-Chancellor, Professor Rushiella Songca.
Dr Mienie explained that AIMday, which stands for Academy–Industry Meeting Day, is part of MUT’s participation in the South African–Swedish University Forum (SASUF), a project aimed at strengthening the University’s networks with Swedish institutions.
“AIMday is a structured, one-day (or half-day) event designed to connect external organisations, such as companies, non-profits, or public sector bodies, with university researchers to solve specific, real-world challenges,” Dr Mienie said.
The initiative follows a model developed at Uppsala University in Sweden, which has since been adopted by universities around the world. The format is deliberately focused: each challenge submitted by an organisation is addressed through the core concept of “one question, one hour,” bringing together multidisciplinary experts to brainstorm solutions.
“This is a unique opportunity for MUT to demonstrate the practical impact of our research while strengthening partnerships with industry, government and civil society,” Dr Mienie said.
MUT’s AIMday is scheduled for 26 May 2026. In the lead-up, staff and researchers are encouraged to submit requests for industry to share challenges that can be addressed during the event.
Mbali Mkhize, SASUF Coordinator at MUT, confirmed that letters inviting industry participation to have already been drafted by Professor Songca. These letters will be disseminated to potential partner organisations, and staff and researchers participating in AIMday are encouraged to engage with Dr Mienie to assist with distributing these invitations.
“We want to ensure maximum participation from industry partners so that our researchers can engage meaningfully with the challenges presented,” Dr Mienie said.
University officials highlighted that AIMday aligns with MUT’s strategic goals under IGNITE 2030 by promoting applied research, collaboration and innovation. By participating in this global initiative, MUT not only enhances its international visibility but also strengthens its capacity to contribute to practical solutions for society.
The researchers, staff, and departments are urged to prepare their submissions and engage actively to ensure that MUT’s first AIMday is impactful and showcases the University’s ability to connect knowledge with real-world problem-solving.