Regional ministers discuss SADC university progress

A joint meeting of Southern African Development Community (SADC) ministers responsible for education, training, science, technology, and innovation has highlighted the progress made towards establishing the SADC University of Transformation (SUT).The meeting was recently held in Kinshasa, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.Led by Muhindo Nzangi Butondo, the higher and tertiary education minister of the Republic of Congo, the meeting aimed to advance regional integration and support the SADC industrialisation agenda.Boost productivity The development of a virtual university originates from a proposal made in 2016 by King Mswati III of Swaziland, when he was the regional bloc’s chairperson, as part of measures to improve industrial productivity. The proposal was approved at a SADC meeting in Windhoek in 2018.During the meeting, Angèle Makombo N&#039;Tumba, SADC deputy executive secretary for regional integration, highlighted the ongoing efforts towards operationalising the institution. The university will prioritise entrepreneurship, innovation, technology transfer, and enterprise development, contributing to the region&#039;s industrialisation goals.N’Tumba updated attendees on its progress and informed them that the SADC secretariat held a vice chancellors’ meeting in January to discuss operationalisation.She said the financial support of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and technical assistance from the Southern Africa Regional Universities Association (SARUA) have been instrumental in the development of the SUT.Strengthen skills The university aims to equip students with the skills needed to succeed in the evolving global economy. By nurturing entrepreneurship, promoting innovation, and facilitating technology transfer, the university will play a key role in developing the digital and knowledge economies within the region.The establishment of the university is viewed as a significant step towards driving economic growth and enhancing regional cooperation. It is expected to create opportunities for job creation, skills development, and the advancement of the SADC industrialisation agenda.The ministers expressed their support for the progress made towards the establishment of the SUT, emphasising the need for continued collaboration among stakeholders to ensure its success.The joint meeting of SADC ministers acknowledged the university&#039;s potential as a catalyst for socioeconomic development within the region. By fostering entrepreneurship, promoting innovation, and supporting technology transfer, the university will contribute to the region&#039;s overall advancement and prosperity.

Regional ministers discuss SADC university progress

Comments

Namibian Sun 2026-04-03

Please login to leave a comment

Regional ministers discuss SADC university progress

Comments

Namibian Sun 2026-04-03

Please login to leave a comment

Subscription Required to Access Content ×

Login

Subscription Required to Access Content