They may come from MUT’s different departments and different educational backgrounds, but one thing unites them: a vision to contribute to the ‘Africa we want’. On the last day of the Africa month, they premiered in the 1KZN TV station to share their evidence-based views on what the country needs to do to make contributions to the Africa we want.
Dr Thobeka Makhathini, senior lecturer: Chemical Engineering
“Africa is blessed with natural and mineral resources, but exploitation of these resources has led to extreme pollution of the environment. Population growth and urbanisation due to infrastructure developments have also contributed immensely to the current pollution in Africa. We are saying that Africa currently contributes less than 5% of global carbon emissions but it bears the brunt of the impact of climate change. Africa should participate in global efforts for climate change mitigation and should continue to speak with one voice and unity of purpose in advancing our position and interests on climate change. Africa should fast-track the implementation of the Climate Change Programme. The programme may include resilient agricultural development programme; sustainable forest management programme, and national adaptation plans.”
Dr Xolile Mkhize: Senior lecturer: Community Extension
“Africa was never hungry. We need to solve this before 2063 through political, socio-economic, agricultural and food policy reform using centres of knowledge such as universities to promote indigenous knowledge and food, spearhead active engagement from communities in food production and local food system and get industry to become transparent on the costing of food, food quality and the nutritional value. Finally, we need the family structure to create a new mindset in terms of food consumption patterns from infancy to the entire life cycle”.
Dr Bongi Mvuyana: Acting HoD, Public Management
“There is a need to build resilient infrastructure which is inclusive and sustainable. Infrastructure development is a key driver for progress across the African continent and a critical enabler for productivity as well as sustainable economic growth. Infrastructure development contributes significantly to human development and poverty reduction. The need for adequate infrastructure is critical to secure energy, efficient transport, reliable communication systems, resilient sanitation, and affordable housing. The current urbanization dynamics, if not controlled, could be a challenge to the development of the housing sector. Again, this could prevent the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11, which seek to ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services and to upgrade slums, as well as the achievement of the SDGs related to poverty and inequality.
Ms Xolile Ngubane: Acting director, Technology Station in Chemicals
“With South Africa leading the national unemployment rate of 34.4%, followed by Namibia at 33.4%, Nigeria at 33.3%, and Angola taking the fifth spot at 31.6% (Statista,2022), Africa is in trouble. Strengthening the small business sector and (small, micro-, and medium enterprises (SMMEs), will enable South Africa to increase the employment base for its large number of low-skilled unemployed citizens, and more so benefit rural and township areas. The drive to support SMMEs as key employers should be supported by the review of the SA labour laws and the extent to which they discourage micro and small companies from engaging employees in meaningful full-time employment. The Post School Education and Training (PSET) sector, which incorporates TVET Colleges and Universities, has an important role to play in supporting SMMEs and innovators in the emerging “green/clean” economy.”