The university’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Nokuthula Sibiya wraps up an important week all voice-chancellors from SA and Sweden where the important discourse has been on sustainability, which is anchored on the 16 SDGs outlined by the United Nations. Professor Sibiya is leading the MUT delegation that attended the South Africa – Sweden University Forum (SASUF) 2024 Research and Innovation Week, 13 – 17 May 2024.
“My take from this week is that the SDGs must play an important role in the MUT strategy development for 2030. As SASUF we are planning for SASUF 2030, and this is an inspiration for us as we must start thinking about the research, innovation, learning and teaching, and communities we serve. What has stood out for me is the sustainability of what we are doing, collaborative approaches we take and keeping in mind the issues of equity, diversity and how we could redress past injustices created by legacies of colonially,” said Professor Sibiya.
Professor Sibiya added that she was impressed with how the MUT delegation had captured various SDGs in their posters and workshops. “Being in Sweden has also made me realise that the role of students in SASUF needs to be reengineered. I will task the relevant office to create a SASUF programme for students that will treat SASUF with passion,” said Professor Sibiya. Professor Sibiya added that her team has been great in adjusting to the weather and diets of Sweden.