The Royal Academy of Engineering in the UK (RAENG-UK) is leading a research initiative titled “An Industry-Based Approach to Reviewing Agricultural Engineering Curriculum and Developing the Capacity of Undergraduates and Early Career Academics of Institutes.” This project is part of the Higher Education Partnerships in Sub-Saharan Africa (HEP SSA) initiative, which aims to enhance the quality and relevance of higher education in the region.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal is spearheading this project, in collaboration with MBB Consulting Engineers, the University of Venda, Fort Cox Agriculture and Forestry Institute, the University of the Free State, the University of Zimbabwe, and the Agricultural Research Council – Natural Resources and Engineering (ARC). The primary objective of HEP SSA is to ensure that the higher education system in Sub-Saharan Africa produces engineers who can meet industry demands, tackle regional challenges, and address the shortage of engineering skills in the region.
The project focuses on four key deliverables:
- Curriculum transformation,
- Enhancing student performance through practical training,
- Academic development, and
- Fostering industry collaboration.
As part of the curriculum transformation effort, MBB’s Managing Director, Mark Zartmann, and Director, Pranesh Moodley, have participated in curriculum review workshops and visited facilities at partner universities. These activities aim to create a more dynamic and integrated higher education environment that can better contribute to the socioeconomic development of the region by providing practical training to both students and staff.
During a recent workshop in Harare, which included a visit to the University of Zimbabwe, Mr. Zartmann remarked, “It is pleasing to see the quality of students that our local universities can produce. It is crucial that we continue to promote programs of academic excellence, underpinned by a deep and thorough understanding of the sciences driving our disciplines, and maintain a high standard that aligns with international best practices and rigor.”
