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By Lungile Ntimba
The University of Pretoria (UP) recently signed a partnership agreement with Wuhan Polytechnic University and the Hubei University of Technology in China to enhance global innovation.
This partnership aims to advance joint research and development initiatives and enhance cooperation on innovation between China and Africa, underscoring UP’s commitment to global academic and technological progress.
Prof. Themba Mosia, who is a vice-principal at UP, hosted a meeting with delegates and representatives from the Department of Science and Technology in Hubei Province and partner universities.
It focused on potential collaborative activities, formalising partnerships and strengthening existing programmes between the countries and their higher education institutions.
A memorandum of cooperation was signed to advance scientific research between the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the Hubei and the School of Engineering at UP’s faculty of engineering, built environment and information technology (EBIT).
Mosia emphasised that these agreements would not only enhance China-Africa innovation partnerships, but also to strengthen international ties between the Hubei Province and the University of Pretoria.
“In South Africa, UP is a leader in international networks and collaborations, reflecting our serious commitment to these partnerships. We believe our partners share this dedication, as evidenced by our nearly two decades of collaboration.
“On behalf of the EBIT faculty, we are deeply grateful for this partnership and the joint projects aimed at addressing global challenges. These collaborations hold great promise, particularly in advancing critical fields such as renewable energy and power grid safety technologies,” Mosia said.
Zhang Xiaoxing, who is the Dean of the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Hubei, highlighted that collaboration would tackle global challenges and drive innovation, making a meaningful impact on societies across the globe.
While Wuhan Polytechnic University president Dong Shijie expressed his honour to be part of this collaboration with UP.
“Wuhan Polytechnic University has established relationships across Europe, America, Australia and Southeast Asia, making the University of Pretoria our first collaboration point on the African continent. Before visiting South Africa, I thoroughly researched UP’s collaborations, particularly in the engineering field, and I am impressed by its contributions, position and development,” he added.
“While our strengths in agriculture and food production are notable, I believe our other faculties are also well suited for collaboration with UP’s departments.
“We recognise that for research-focused universities, international collaboration is essential. It is crucial for our students and staff to engage globally and work together on research and innovation,” he said.
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