Research and Community Engagement PDF

About the cover
The Durban University of Technologys research ethos is symbolised by an outstretched hand, a helping hand, a guiding hand, that extends firmly into the heart of the community, eagerly grasping it, lifting it and offering to share skills, knowledge and resources for the empowerment and upliftment of all. Natures elements are captured in the brown of the earth, the deep orange of the sun and the blue of the sky. The silver foilwrapped and embossed title provides a shining light against the earths colours which illuminates the way forward. A montage of photographs captures the four thematic research areas of this bulletin which contribute to society. Research and community engagement is a synergistic relationship, one in which both partners are able to influence a desirable outcome, which neither could achieve alone. The relationship is in line with the DUTs mission of conducting relevant, applied research and the CRMDs vision of strengthening institutional research for the benefit of Africa.
RESEARCH
& COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
A REVIEW OF
Contents
Foreword
The Director: Research Management and Development 4
Messages
The MEC for Education, KwaZulu-Natal The President: National Research Foundation The Council (Administrator) The Vice Chancellor and Principal The Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) 5 6 7 8 9
Defining Research and Community Engagement Health and Society - Addressing the Social and Health Implications of the HIV/AIDS Pandemic
The Siyazama Project 2
A REVIEW OF RESEARCH AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
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12 14 16 16 17 18
Art for Humanity The Materials Development Project Orphanages for Children Affected by and Infected with HIV/AIDS Ukuba Nesibindi Centre Immune Boosters: What Effect do these have on Viral Loads and Lymphocyte Counts?
Skills Development - Contributing to the National Skills Development Strategy

Community Research Projects: Centre for Skills Development Amasondo Esibindi - Wheels of Courage Siyaya Project ISETT SETA Learnerships Early Childhood Development Learnerships ICT Development for Rural KZN Entrepreneurs Taking Science-to-Laboratory Teacher Development Tholulwazi User Interface Localisation Project 20 21 21 22 22 23 24 25
Contents (contd.)
Sustainable Resource Management - Renewable Energy Resources and the Environment
The Inanda-Ntuzuma-KwaMashu (INK) Agricultural Project Sustainable Water Pumping in Fredville (Inchanga - KZN) Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Maize Meal to Improve its Nutritional Value Commercialisation Potential of Local Traditional Vegetables KwaMajomela Water Project Myeka High School Energy Project Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs) in Agriculture: A Demonstration Site Water and Membrane Technology Chromium Contamination of Groundwater Testing the Quality of Water Stored in Shipping Containers Innovative Processes using Membrane Technology and Solar Energy Community Research Projects: Centre for Systems Research Optimising Game Farm Management using Computational Intelligence The South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA) Project 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 33 34 34 35 36 37 38
Language, Design and Visual Identity - Protecting Indigenous Design and Craft Heritage
Craft Collaborations: Shembe Beadwork A Cultural Tourism Research Development Project: The French Presence in KwaZulu-Natal Baumann House, Tennyson House and the Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) Community Research Projects Can Community Television Encourage Social Change? The Albert Park Renewable Project The Salt March The Impact of Tourist Perceptions of Safety and Security on Tourism Marketing in Mpumalanga Journeys of Healing, Identity and Empowerment The Georgetown Project 45 46 48 42 43 44 44 41 40
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Foreword by the Director: Research Management and Development
DUT: investing in the people of KwaZulu-Natal
The core functions of universities in South Africa are three-fold, viz., teaching and learning, research, and community engagement (or community service). The commitment of the Durban University of Technology to its core business is captured within its mission, viz., To serve the needs of developing societies within a dynamic global context and to enable quality teaching, learning, research and community engagement by (inter alia) promoting excellence in applied and relevant research. It is therefore of paramount importance that the critical imperatives that define DUTs research ethos are carried out hand-inhand with the communities in and around its campuses, in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. These imperatives are rooted in the institutions commitment to contributing to food security, eradicating poverty and investigating crucial health issues. DUT is investing in the people of KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa through skills development, especially in rural and peri-urban and communities, developing and harnessing strategic
Professor D (Gansen) Pillay
Research which impacts on the communities served by DUT staff are broadly separated into four areas in this bulletin, viz.: Health and society, which includes tackling pandemic; Contributing to the National Skills Development Strategy through skills transfer and enabling development that helps to uplift communities; Sustainable resource management, embracing food security and poverty alleviation, renewable energy, and the environment; and Language, design and visual identity, which incorporates protecting indigenous design and craft, oral traditional knowledge, and spiritual belief systems. Information in this bulletin on research the social of and health HIV/AIDS implications the
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impacting on communities is based on
DUTs imperatives are rooted in its commitment to contributing to food security, eradicating poverty and investigating crucial health issues.
feedback provided by researchers from the DUT. We are aware that a number of new initiatives are in the pipeline, or may have already begun. These would be covered in a forthcoming update. Research is a full-time activity that shapes an institution of higher learning. It informs teaching and adds to the currency of the curriculum. I take this opportunity of expressing my appreciation to all researchers at the DUT for their commitment, dedication and passion in ensuring the relevance, excellence and delivery of our research programmes to the communities we serve. I am also grateful to the leadership of the University for their continued support of research at the DUT.
and comparative advantages for social, industrial and technological development, including bridging the Information and Communication Technology digital divide. Throughout, it works diligently to protect the heritage that is unique to the region. The DUTs Centre for Research Management and Development (CRMD) is vested with the responsibility of meeting the critical imperatives. This review seeks to provide an overview of the research projects that have, indeed, reached to the very core of our communities. It also provides an audit of existing activities for review within the Academic Strategic Plan of the DUT and informs resource allocation.
Professor D (Gansen) Pillay
Message from the MEC for Education, KwaZulu-Natal
Developing an intellectual foundation for engaging with communities
The mission statement of the Durban University of Technology is a beacon that guides the institution: to serve the needs of developing societies within a dynamic global context and to enable quality teaching, learning, research and community engagement. This mission heeds the call for institutions of higher education to promote and develop social responsibility and awareness among students of the role of higher education in social and economic development, through community service programmes. Prior to 1994 such programmes were mainly initiated by concerned academic staff in response to the needs of communities at the time. Today higher education institutions
Ms Ina Cronje
Engaging in community partnerships enables institutions of higher education to provide more than theoretical opportunities to engage members of communities who confront very different life challenges. These opportunities support research, which is a key activity of a higher education institution. They add to the sum of human knowledge and understanding; inform and enhance teaching; generate useful insights and inventions in support of development creation and an improved quality of life; and create an environment in which research relevant to a particular society flourishes. By using the DUTs expertise in the areas of teaching and research, students benefit directly from community involvement through service learning, volunteerism and community-based programmes. Educating students from the context of 5
throughout the world are faced with the challenge of developing an intellectual foundation for engaging more closely with surrounding communities, which will enable such institutions to integrate their key activities of teaching and research with service.
applied learning and problem solving
By using the DUTs expertise in the areas of teaching and research, students benefit directly from community involvement.
prepares them to face some of the complex challenges and opportunities of our world. We wish you success in pursuing your mission.
Ms Ina Cronj
Message from the President: National Research Foundation
Robust research programmes justify investment in DUT
I am delighted to be able to provide a message for the Review of Research and Community Engagement. The National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa promotes and supports research through funding, human resource development and by providing the necessary research facilities to facilitate the creation of knowledge, innovation and development in all fields of science and technology, including indigenous knowledge, and thereby to contribute to the improvement of the quality of life of all the people of the Republic. Our vision is for a prosperous South Africa and African continent steeped in a knowledge culture, free of widespread diseases and poverty, and proud
Professor Mzamo Mangaliso
the innovation chain as of paramount importance. It must be realised that wealthproducing innovation does not occur in a vacuum. It is intimately linked to the whole of society becoming more creative, more interconnected and exhibiting more solidarity. Technological breakthroughs do not automatically lead to increased wealth; institutional adjustments and innovations are also needed. More wealth does not lead to a better society; for this to happen social innovation is also required. Innovation, therefore, cannot be reduced to technological breakthroughs and the need to bring them to market. Social Sciences, Humanities and Law research and innovation are also central to development and prosperity. The range of research activities covered in this bulletin justifies the investment made by the NRF at the DUT. Robust research projects which positively impact on the communities fall within the following NRFfunded research niche areas and open programmes: Dynamical systems research; Appropriate design education for sustainable development; ICT and development; and Indigenous knowledge systems.
contributors to the well-being of humanity. The NRF is responsible for promoting the full range of activities in the research and 6
innovation chain. The mandate requires science outreach activities, high-level human resource development and the expansion of the strategic knowledge base in all fields of science through developing disciplinary, trans-disciplinary, basic and applied research thereby providing the platform for technology development, innovation and eventual commercialisation. The NRF therefore supports the range from traditional academic areas to high-risk, high pay-off ideas and novel collaborations. The knowledge base is not built in isolation, but through the concomitant development of high-quality human resources, the provision of state-of-the-art research equipment and unique national research facilities. The NRF regards the promotion of the role of Social Sciences, Humanities and Law in
The knowledge base is

not built in isolation, but through the concomitant development of high-quality human resources, the provision of state-of-the-art research equipment and unique national research facilities.
It is also worth noting that the DUT has successfully secured funding in four research niche areas over the next five years. I take this opportunity of congratulating the DUT on its research initiatives, which contribute to the creation of a better society and further assists South Africa in meeting the challenges of Agenda 21, and beyond. Professor Mzamo Mangaliso
Message from Council
On the brink of a major research breakthrough
I can think of few institutions better placed to play a leading role in development research in southern Africa than the Durban University of Technology. Consider the following: here is an institution with a small but powerful group of NRF-rated researchers, a growing number of academics leading funded research programmes, a large group of young academics registered for advanced degrees, and an energetic research leadership that brings together the talents and interests of all research staff in an impressive array of annual publications. Led well, these are the ingredients for building a stellar research institution. True, the base of productivity is low at the moment and the proportion of active researchers still relatively small but it is exactly this developmental challenge, matched by the enthusiasm of young academics, that gives confidence that DUT stands on the brink of a major research breakthrough. But how will this happen? The research leadership team is about to be bolstered by the recent appointment of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Professor Lionel Slammert, who is himself a nationally recognised researcher in the field of mathematics and one who is passionate about advancing institutional scholarship. In addition, the Management is seriously considering raising the profile and status of the research office so that inquiry and publication are not seen as residual activities of academics once they have attended to their pressing teaching loads, but as activities central to the essence of what defines a 21st century university. And the Management has also developed a plan that insists on minimal qualifications
Professor Jonathan D Jansen
(at least a Masters degree) for all academic staff which implies that research output will be built into the performance management plan for every academic and that the achievement thereof will be part of the performance assessment of every academic line manager. This is what great universities do. What I find particularly striking about the research at DUT is its career-oriented character, its sensitivity to the needs of communities, its alertness to the changing demands of the business environment and, therefore, its thoroughly practical and yet scholarly qualities. And so research at DUT covers everything from indigenous knowledge to poverty relief to HIV/AIDS to food security to renewable energy. I stand in awe and admiration of what has been achieved, and of what is going to be 7
I stand in awe and
achieved, in the years ahead. This review of research and community engagement provides the baseline for measuring future achievements, and is a crucial document not only for marketing the research contribution of DUT but also to inform the strategic allocation of resources by the leadership of this promising University of Technology. It is my privilege to congratulate the Vice Chancellor, Professor Goba, and his team for this research drive and, in particular, the Director of Research, Professor G. Pillay, for the wonderful idea of a Research Bulletin for the DUT. I will not only observe, but participate in your success, with much excitement. Professor Jonathan D Jansen Administrator, DUT
admiration of what has been achieved, and of what is going to be achieved, in the years ahead.
Message from the Vice Chancellor and Principal
Maintaining and sustaining excellence with relevance
Let me begin by congratulating the Centre for Research Management and Development for its foresight and vision in compiling this bulletin to document the various research activities that have positively impacted on the lives of people in our communities and continues to attempt to create a better life for all in South Africa. Community engagement, or community service, is one of the three core functions of our University. It is inextricably woven with research, and teaching and learning. Of late, higher education institutions in South Africa have begun to deliberate and discuss various models for community engagement. Similarly, the DUT has also explored this and is currently crafting a policy that speaks directly to community engagement. This would be circulated for stakeholder comment before formalisation, adoption and implementation. The former technikons, now known as Universities of Technology, have a track record of community engagement which can be largely attributed to the applied nature of their research programmes. Within DUTs strategic and operational plans there is a strong emphasis on applied and relevant research which is linked to the communities we serve. While the boundaries between basic and applied research continue to become blurred within higher education institutions in South Africa, the informed choice and strategic positioning of research programmes at the DUT allow our researchers to maintain and sustain excellence with relevance. Coupled with this is a strong emphasis on human capital development. The research conducted by our academics and researchers could also contribute towards their own formal research qualifications thereby enabling them to better serve our
Professor Bonganjalo C Goba
communities through greater knowledge generation and knowledge sharing. It is vital that academics and learners engage in research of relevance. It is critical that research is seen not as an esoteric activity but as an integral component of the academic life of the institution. Without a rich, dynamic culture of research at DUT, no active teaching and learning can take place. To rise above mediocrity, it is incumbent upon us to create a climate in which research and in particular, research that deals with real-life issues thrives. We need to respond to the critical issues that confront us daily. Alternative medicines, HIV/AIDS, traditional authorities, maritime studies, entrepreneurship, indigenous knowledge systems and poverty-reduction these are real-life issues and topics that we, as academics, need to be grappling with. So
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It is critical that research

is seen not as an esoteric activity but as an integral component of the academic life of the institution.
it is heartening to note that our researchers are concerning themselves with these and other issues, which have such a bearing on the lives of the communities we serve. By making sure our research is responsive to such problems, we are adding true value to our communities. This Review of Research and Community Engagement provides a synopsis of current activities of some of our research programmes. It is an incremental step that documents evidence in our long walk to realising our Vision of becoming a leading University of Technology in Africa. Congratulations to all our researchers for their tireless efforts and I hope that many more will be encouraged through this to make a lasting contribution to create a better life for all.
Professor Bonganjalo C Goba
Message from the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic)
The way forward, through academic humility and service
I am pleased to be given the opportunity to share a few ideas on this initiative as I believe strongly in the need for DUT to place increased emphasis on community engagement. This can take various forms such as service learning, but one of the most important of these is through research. In this field we are already doing a great deal as this report demonstrates. In all faculties, and in several departments, relevant and developmental work at community level takes place in both urban and rural areas. Not all of this work is as well known as it should be, which is why the communication of what we are doing in this field to make our work more visible is all the more vital and why this particular effort of the CRMD is so valuable. The DUT fully embraces the idea that as a tertiary institution we have three pillars of responsibility: teaching, research, and community service. What is perhaps less well understood is that these pillars are related to one another. Research and community work are therefore not completely separate areas of activity. Much good research can be done by working in communities and, perhaps more importantly, with them in order to better understand and respond to local developmental needs. But such research also aids good teaching as it should ensure greater relevance and a deeper awareness of the conditions in which the people of this country live. So instead of viewing the world outside the institution from the perspective of privilege and domestic comfort, community
Professor Malcolm Wallis
engagement means spending time doing serious work in townships and in rural areas characterized by poverty in its many forms. It also helps the staff of DUT, most of whom are from privileged backgrounds, to understand rather better, the kinds of environments from which the majority of our students come. Surely this can only assist in the promotion of better teaching? The present initiative is part of a wider effort, which may ultimately be in the form of a funded programme, to make it possible for our DUT community to play a more significant role in community engagement. This must be done in a spirit of service and partnership, and most emphatically should totally avoid the arrogance of those academics who assume that because they have letters behind their names reading PhD and the like, they are superior to those whose formal education may be more 9
Much good research can

be done by working in communities and, perhaps more importantly, with them, in order to better understand and respond to local developmental needs.
modest. It is very mistaken to equate education with knowledge because what a disadvantaged community in a remote area knows may well be superior in all sorts of ways to what the academic can offer. Part of this argument is that the key to moving forward is academic humility and service. It is my hope that the ideas presented here will help us to progress in the field of
community engagement and, by so doing, create a more relevant and developmental institution.
Professor Malcolm Wallis
Defining Research and Community Engagement

Definition of research: According to the National Research Foundation (NRF) of
Acknowledgements
The following people are acknowledged for their contributions to this bulletin: Researchers who provided written summaries and photographs of their research; Photographs provided by other sources, as indicated; Persons who provided messages of goodwill and support; Ms Lettie Paulo from the Department of Journalism for actively interfacing with all the researchers, tirelessly gathering and authenticating data and collating the information; Ms Charmaine Naidoo for initial co-ordination of this initiative; Professor Gansen Pillay for conceptualisation, compilation and final editing of the bulletin; Mrs Kathy Waddington, Mr Phindile Mantantana and Ms Shakila Chetty of Artworks Communications for design, typesetting and production;
South Africa, research is original investigation undertaken to gain knowledge and/or enhance understanding. Research specifically includes: the creation and development of the intellectual infrastructure of subjects and disciplines (e.g., through dictionaries, scholarly editions, catalogues and contributions to major research databases); the invention or generation of ideas, images, performances and artifacts where these manifestly embody new or substantially developed insights; building on existing knowledge to produce new or substantially improved materials, devices, products, policies or processes. Definition of community: Community refers to those local, collective interest groups that participate in the community engagement activities of the university. In the South African context, members of such communities are generally disadvantaged inhabitants of under-serviced urban, peri-urban or rural areas. These communities may usually be accessed through service-sector organisations such as government departments, as well as non-governmental, community-based or faith-based organisations. The community partner has an active role in the identification of service needs, development challenges, and the review and evaluation of community engagements. Definition of community engagement (also referred to as community service): Negotiated, mutually beneficial partnerships and collaborations between the university and the communities it serves for the purposes of enhancing and exchanging knowledge, skills and expertise thus ultimately contributing to the improved development of societies. The White Paper on Education calls on institutions to demonstrate social responsibility ... and their commitment to the common good by making available expertise and infrastructure for community service programmes. It states that one of the goals of higher education is to promote and develop social responsibility and awareness among students of the role of higher education in social and economic development through community service programmes. Promoting community-oriented research: The Centre for Research Management and Development (CRMD) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) has a leading role to play in the promotion and facilitation of community-oriented research at the DUT. The CRMD will identify, develop and support research which is relevant to the communities it serves and which contributes to poverty eradication and a better life for all.
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The Council and Management of the DUT for their continued support and encouragement of research.
Researchers from all faculties at the DUT are either directly or indirectly engaged in research extending into the social, technological, medical, scientific and biological implications of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The province in which the University is located, KwaZulu-Natal, is recognised as being at the epicentre of the disease and it is recognised that the impacts and effects on those infected and affected permeate all strata of society. The institutions multi-disciplinary research aims to reach into, and make a meaningful difference in, the lives of the members of communities through a number of interventions.
The Siyazama Project

A traditional beadwork and AIDS intervention programme
Rural KwaZulu-Natals indigenous design and craft heritage is vulnerable, especially in the face of HIV/AIDS. Siyazama, the flagship project in the Department of Graphic Design in the Faculty of Arts, addresses important health issues with particular reference to HIV/AIDS awareness. The National Research Foundation (NRF)-funded Research Niche Area, Appropriate Education for Sustainable Development, which is located in this Department, recognises the important role that design plays in creating a balanced, healthy, community life. Design is an integral tool in encouraging an awareness of rights and other issues that threaten the stability of communities. Directed by Senior Lecturer Kate Wells,
(Above and below) Using beadwork to communicate through visual metaphor.
The craftswomen express their concerns about HIV and AIDS and all of its complexities through their work. HIV/AIDS awareness is spread through creative workshops, local and international exhibitions, museum collections and research activities. The Ackerman Foundation of South Africa responded favourably to a request for funding for the Siyazama Project in May 2005. There is a joint contract in place to enable the project to achieve a sustainable business model and raise funds on behalf of the rural craftswomen. The timeframe for completion is February 2007. In her research project, Manipulating Metaphors, Ms Wells investigated how rural craft is used for communicating on HIV/AIDS issues and confronting culture in KwaZuluNatal. Her aim was to better understand the effect and effectiveness of beadwork as a visual metaphor and to analyse how it circumvents cultural taboos on discussions of sexuality and other matters of personal intimacy. The study describes beliefs and attitudes prevalent at the time of the project, six years ago. It assesses the value of the Siyazama Project itself to the medium of beadwork, as a contemporary cultural archive that speaks to the complexities of HIV/AIDS in southern Africa. Within the niche area Appropriate Design Education for Sustainable Development (led by Professor Ian Sutherland), resides the Design, Health and Community research focus, where much community interaction takes place. In 2005, five B.Tech Graphic Design students were awarded NRF Student
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Siyazama works with a small group of rural traditional craftswomen who make beaded cloth dolls, tableaux, beaded jewellery and imbenges (decorative beaded bowls). Expert rural craftswomen from the Valley of a Thousand Hills, Inanda Valley, Msinga region and Ndwedwe informal settlements, along with undergraduate and postgraduate design students, health workers, doctors, traditional healers, People Living with HIV/AIDS, medical anthropologists, performers, musicians and marketing outlets, all work together on a multiplicity of levels in addressing AIDS awareness, while engendering a breaking of the silence and straight talk approach.
Assistantships for their work in different areas of this growing research area. Four are working directly in AIDS-related scenarios. m Sibu Sosibo has spent a great deal of the past year sitting in on voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) consultations and has proposed a TESTA programme, which attempts to encourage youth to get tested for HIV. m Brett Montanari began his research project intending to produce an AIDS awareness campaign that was quirky and hard-hitting. He changed his direction and is instead making a documentary on the Dream Centre in Pinetown, where homeless AIDS patients are welcomed and cared for. m Victoria Robertson is carrying out a photographic examination into how and where AIDS orphans are looked after in Durban. She is producing a book on this subject. m Cindy Mothilal is redesigning and promoting a new brand identity for the Siyazama Project. Her photographic interactions with traditional craftswomen added valuable insights. m Shirley Berko, who is examining the nuances of running ones own graphic design enterprise and the implications of being self-employed, is also assisting with the design management of the Siyazama website. Ms Wells has presented at several conferences nationally and internationally, where some of her project artefacts have been on display. In March 2005, she delivered a paper, conducted onsite walkabouts and gave illustrated presentations on the Siyazama Project at the New Museum of World Culture in Gothenburg in Sweden. Her project was one of three South African projects invited at the year-long No Name Fever: AIDS in the Age of Globalisation exhibition at this prestigious museum.
(Above and below) Professional photographer John Hone captures images for a book on the Zulu nation, which is informed by Kate Wells research. Rural women involved in the Siyazama Project.
Investigating how rural craft is used for communicating on HIV/AIDS issues ... understanding beadwork as a visual metaphor ...
A large collection of beaded crafts made by the Siyazama Project was commissioned by the Michigan State University Museum, and an extensive exhibition opened in this museum in February 2006. It is on show for 12 months. The women involved in the Siyazama Project were photographed in June 2006 at their rural homesteads by professional photographer John Hone, who is producing a new book on the Zulu nation. Ms Wells was asked to produce a short text describing the project for this book which would be published by Art Publishers in 2006. In other projects during the past three years, several B.Tech students in the Department of Graphic Design have researched a range of community issues, such as the plight of street children, hospices in Durban and the range of services which they provide, and documented the places of residence of homeless people. Homelessness is an ongoing challenge to the city of Durban. 13
Research outputs
Sutherland, I. (2004). Paradigm shift: The challenge to graphic design education and professional practice in postapartheid South Africa. Design Issues 20: 51-60. Wells, K., Seinaert, E. and Conolly, J. (2004). The Siyazama Project. A traditional beadwork and AIDS intervention programme. Design Issues 20: 73-89.
Art for Humanity

Art as advocacy on HIV/AIDS projects
The Arts have a history of inspiring society to take action, to recognise and to internalise values including issues around identity, culture, land, objects and gender. The research initiative confirms, to a large degree, the potential of art as an advocacy medium to contribute to the social and cultural environmental context. Within this, direct interventions can be employed to effect positive change regarding issues, in this case HIV/AIDS, which affect society negatively. The Department of Fine Art is home to Art for Humanity (AFH), a non-profit organisation that engages cultural production, particularly in the visual arts, to promote regional and global human rights awareness. Lecturer and AFH Director Jan Jordaan supervises student interns who run the project. AFH has been involved in art and advocacy projects since 1988. Promoting human rights awareness
(Above) The late Trevor Makhobas God wants his people linocut and (below) Mduduzi Xakazas silkscreen, Yehoshua Comforting an AIDS victim, both used in the Break the Silence campaign. Osiah Masekoanmengs Phamokate billboard, displayed at Diepkloof, Soweto, Gauteng.
This aimed to demonstrate how art can be a vital catalyst to promote interaction and dialogue about political, economic and social issues. The research project is on Measuring the effectiveness of a specific artwork on advocating emergency contraception awareness in the DUT student community. Billboards were flighted in Cape Town, Johannesburg and in Lamontville, KwaZulu-Natal. AFH brought the campaign to DUT by flighting three banners featuring this image on the Steve Biko and ML Sultan campuses. The campaign was part of a collaborative research project between Jan Jordaan, and Ms Joy Kistnasamy (Department of Environmental Health). It assesses how art as advocacy impacts on the knowledge, attitude and practices of students at DUT regarding the use of emergency contraception. Through the use of various visual media and detailed questionnaires, three centres were targeted: the Isolempilo Wellness clinic at Steve Biko, and the ML Sultan and Steve Biko libraries. The project runs from January to December 2006. Accompanying the visual impact of the banner, educational pamphlets were supplied by the Reproductive Health Research Unit at Wits University. The campaign is motivated by the fact that infrastructure development, which provides services across all sectors but especially health, is happening at a rate that cannot meet the needs of all people affected. The NGO and NPO sectors are the fastest growing sectors in South Africa at present. Ms Kistnasamy also collaborated with Mr Jordaan on the Break the Silence HIV/AIDS posters study, which assessed the effect of
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through art and advocacy projects has manifested in projects such as the Kara Walker campaign, a joint Department of Environmental Health and Fine Art initiative, involving dramatic billboards, educational pamphlets and other media. In an effort to promote awareness of womens reproductive health issues AFH, in partnership with the Denver Museum of Contemporary Art, initiated a billboard campaign featuring an image created by acclaimed American artist, Kara Walker.
HIV/AIDS posters on the Durban University of Technology community. Public response and the commitment of the organisation have established it as an important public engagement programme. Break the Silence was designed as a public education programme using artistic images on billboards to change peoples HIV/AIDSrelated behaviour and instil a sense of moral ownership of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in society through art. The campaign included: m exhibitions policy m billboards and posters targeting the general public m a catalogue targeting the reading public Based on the growing problems regarding m educational booklets targeting learners. The campaign produced more than 70 billboards and 50 exhibitions of the original artworks, countrywide. During 2002 funding for posters was secured from the South African Vice Chancellors Association (SAUVCA), for the production of 1 200 high quality posters. This allowed for the reinstatement of the research project, which was completed during 2003. Further funding was secured from the DUT research committee. One objective was that the posters should reflect a definitive HIV/AIDS awareness message, made accessible to the public nationally. Using the demographically representative DUT community, posters were strategically flighted on four campuses of the Institute, viz., the Ritson / Mansfield Road, Steve Biko, ML Sultan and City campuses. As public interaction was critical to the success of the programme, AFH endeavoured to gauge the effectiveness of the programme. Interviews with community members are ongoing. Student intern Bianca Bothma, a 4th year the rights and welfare of children in our society, particularly as a result of the ongoing HIV/AIDS pandemic, poverty, neglect and social moral decay, AFH initiated the 2006 Women Artists and Poets advocate Childrens Rights public campaign, based on the models described. 15
campaign
targeting
(Above) Gabisile Nkosis linocut, (below) Chris Diederickss linocut and (bottom) Yusuf Vaheds Survival woodcut, all used in the Break the Silence campaign.
decision-makers and those influencing B.Tech (Journalism) student, is carrying out a comparative study between Artsbased HIV/AIDS advocacy programmes and advertising-based HIV/AIDS advocacy programmes.
Research outputs
Jordaan, J. Art as a social development - the AFH Model. A Conversation on the Dynamic between Arts & Culture & Human Rights, in the context of Limpopos complex diversity, 3 - 5 March 2006, Polokwane City, Limpopo, South Africa. Jordaan, J. Break the Silence HIV/AIDS portfolio Art and Advocacy. 1 December 2003, Denver Museum of Contemporary Art, USA. Jordaan, J. Break the Silence HIV/AIDS portfolio Art and Advocacy. 4 December 2003, Johns Hopkins Center for Health and Communications Studies, Baltimore, USA. Jordaan, J. Break the Silence Printmaking and Advocacy. 3rd Impact International Printmaking Conference, 27-30 August 2003, Michaelis School of Fine Art, University of Cape Town. Co-hosted with Rhodes University School of Fine Art, South Africa.
The Materials Development Project
A Materials Development Project, a collaboration between the Departments of Environmental Health and Graphic Design and the Osindisweni Hospital, is a pilot for future collaboration and research endeavours. Various projects are under way to assist patients and staff in adding value to Batho Pele principles as advocated by Government. Additionally, it serves to assist students to develop new ideas and concepts as well as materials development. Students from the Department of
Health publications in English and isiZulu have been developed in a collaborative project that brings together the Departments of Environmental Health and Graphic Design.
These include: m In Epidemiology, Health Education Programmes via the production of videos dramatising the prevention and control of violence, and communicable and non-communicable diseases, including cholera, tuberculosis, HIV/ AIDS, diabetes, hypertension and heart attacks. Booklets, CDs and posters on these topics are being produced in English and isiZulu for distribution to patients. m In Food Hygiene: audits, training videos and health posters and pamphlets on the Department of Graphic Design, have designed a programme that will produce material, including videos, booklets and CDs. nutrition are being developed. Development of materials was based on ongoing research findings within the areas of human health being investigated.
Environmental Health collaborated with students from the Department of Graphic Design. Ms Kistnasamy and Mr Graham Barratt, both from the Department of Environmental Health, together with Professor Ian Sutherland and Ms Wells from
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Orphanages for Children Affected by and Infected with HIV/AIDS
It is estimated that South Africa will have three million AIDS orphans by 2010. Although local communities are currently able to absorb most, this will soon reach saturation point and the need to provide caring and nurturing environments is of paramount importance. Susan Donaldson-Selby, a Lecturer in the Department of Entertainment Technology, was requested by the Manyakabana Womens Development Trust established to provide support for women and children through the provision of counselling, economic upliftment, care facilities and education for children affected by the HIV/
(Above) A model of a childrens home and (below) an aerial view of the interior.
AIDS pandemic to design and construct two models of childrens villages for both rural and urban environments. Based on research conducted by Ms Donaldson-Selby, the following models were designed for the Trust. The first model illustrates the proposed layout for a large rural orphanage, with the design based on a traditional Zulu kraal layout. Caregiver accommodation and skills development centres will be established to provide education and training for the local communities. A second model, 1:10 scale, is of a proposed three-bedroom rondavel, which would accommodate the caregiver and five children (10, if bunk beds were used). The Manyakabana Womens Development Trust and eThekwini Municipality have formed a partnership and funding is being raised to develop the first site.
Ukuba Nesibindi Centre
Based on their investigative research findings Dr Frida Rundell and Ms Jackie Winfield from the Department of Child and Youth Development, within the Faculty of Health Sciences, successfully embarked on a variety of community engagement and development activities and programmes. Most of this was undertaken within the context of learners practical placements, or experiential learning. There were 50 1st year students, all of whom were based at preschools in the greater Durban area. Thus, much of their work was centred on the care and development of young children. Ukuba Nesibindi is a community-based centre, started in 2002 as a partnership between Life Line and the Department of Child and Youth Development. The facility is in the heart of the Warwick Junction Triangle in the inner city, and serves as a critical resource to street vendors whose children receive an educare programme. The Centre provides other vital services to the community, including HIV/AIDS preand post-test counselling, rape counselling and life skills development for sex workers. At 2nd year level, the focus for students is on residential child and youth care facilities, which provide services to young people from birth to 18 years of age who have been placed in care under the Child Care Act. The 40 students, who each completed 400 hours in such placements, were involved in building relationships with young people at risk, providing holistic care and implementing a range of developmental and therapeutic programmes. Students in 3rd year in the Department of Child and Youth Development were placed at residential child and youth care facilities. Research explored experiences and therapeutic effects of school programmes and residential child and youth care 17
Children, students and researchers at the Ukuba Nesibindi Centre, in Warwick Avenue, Durban.
The Centre serves as a

receive an educare programme.
facilities; and the use of the creative arts and the wilderness as specific treatment tools with at-risk children and youth. Students involved in the Ukuba Nesibindi Drop-in Centre worked collaboratively with the Life Line team to provide life skills training to young sex workers referred from the Community Court in Point Road. Some of the findings from these
critical resource to street vendors whose children
engagements have provided new insights in informing the direction of future research within these communities. The intellectual shaping of such research programmes is critical to optimising positive impacts which may accrue to the community as a result of the research.
Immune Boosters: What Effect do these have on Viral Loads and Lymphocyte Counts?
Mrs Brenda Thabisile Mkhize, Head of the Department of Biomedical Technology is registered for the M.Tech. (Biomedical Technology) degree. She is involved with obtaining and testing blood samples to measure the rate of change of CD4 and CD8 lymphocyte counts and viral loads in HIV-infected patients, from baseline (0 months) to six months after they have been subjected to immune booster therapy. Blood samples are compared with published data for antiretroviral drugs where the rate of change is known. Patients from Inanda, Durban, Impendle and Pietermaritzburg were recruited and will be followed up, after six months, for further testing to measure any changes.
A model of the HIV protease, a target for AIDS therapy (courtesy of Scripps Institute).
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... a before and after
While this is not a clinical trial but a before and after study, it is aimed at helping patients who are reluctant to be on antiretroviral (ARV) drugs or who do not yet qualify to be in an ARV programme. This study is part of a greater research initiative within this area.
study, it is aimed at helping patients who are reluctant to be on ARVs, or who do not yet qualify to be in an ARV programme.
HIV structure (courtesy of Journal of Chemical Education).
DUT is committed to investing in the people of KwaZulu-Natal through contributing to South Africas National Skills Development Strategy and ensuring previously disadvantaged communities in rural, peri-urban and urban areas are provided opportunities, through research, to receive entrepreneurial and technological skills opportunities. It does this through skills transfer and enabling development, which helps to uplift those citizens who need it most. Staff and students of the DUT are working within surrounding communities to develop the skills required to address the challenges of the new millennium, through entrepreneurship skills development. Research projects emphasise Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) development and bridging the digital divide with Information Communication Technology (ICT) skills.
Community Research Projects: Centre for Skills Development
DUTs Centre for Skills Development (CSD) prides itself on being a world-class Centre of Excellence in Skills Development that makes a meaningful contribution to the National Skills Development Strategy. Projects provide information on Skills Development nationally and regionally, while the community focus is on enabling skills development in order to improve the quality of life of the people in surrounding communities. Research has informed the development of a unique SMME model aimed at encouraging business start-ups and supporting the growth of SMMEs. As part of its commitment to the National Skills Development Strategy, the CSD has set up SMME support services. It provides links and resources to assist those individuals who are motivated to transform innovative ideas into successful business concepts. Research projects include knowledge mapping in technology transfer (including the SMME sector), in skills development and best practice case studies, and in new institutionalism. The domain mapping of South African research interventions in the disability sector provided background on national initiatives on various SMME topics, the disability sectors and countrywide training provision. It has also served to initiate an electronic link to information sources.
representation and qualification levels. A needs analysis of SMME training was carried out. A survey of SMME support agencies
Research has informed

the development of a unique SMME model that is aimed at encouraging business start-ups and that supports the growth of SMMEs.
provided information on small business owners perceptions of training and financial support offered by agencies (governmental and non-governmental organisations), in terms of business success.
Skills demand in the services sector

This project was aimed at linking training programmes available to employees and the unemployed, and examined whether this resulted in more appropriate training in skills required by industry. Research on economic trends in services sub-sectors linked the supply of skills to types of economic activities, both regionally and nationally.
Labour recruitment
A study provided data from respondents on the extent of temporary employment practices in the country (in the service industry) in an effort to establish why temporary employment was increasing and permanent employment decreasing. Interestingly, the reasons were closely linked to the cost to employees relevant to permanent employment, as well as to a lack of appropriately skilled individuals
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The Centre interfaces with corporates, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA), municipalities, local and international donors, emerging providers and skills agencies as a lead service provider. It assists each to fulfil their objectives through the successful implementation of skills development initiatives. The CSD has expanded its support of skills development initiatives beyond the borders of KwaZuluNatal and is engaged with research projects in the provinces of Gauteng, Eastern Cape and Western Cape.
Demographic study of SMMEs in the services sector

A survey was carried out to establish the types of people and skills involved in South Africas Services SMMEs. This provided a breakdown of racial and gender
Determination of scarce skills

This study reports on industry trends. Two projects - process identification in sales, marketing and customer care, and a business process outsourcing study focused on what opportunities were available to local and national communities to become involved in the growing international outsourcing trend.
Amasondo Esibindi - Wheels of Courage
This research project is a collaboration between three key organisations the Services SETA, Quadriplegic Association of South Africa (QASA) and the Centre for Skills Development. The focus of the Amasondo Esibindi team is on empowering people with mobility impairment to create, develop and successfully manage their own businesses. Learners embarking on a New Venture Creation (NVC) learnership had an opportunity to establish and sustain their own businesses. Apart from the obvious advantages of becoming independent, the project makes a vital contribution to the economy of South Africa through new job creation. The programme has recruited 54 mobility impaired people for the NVC learnerships, during which they are encouraged to explore their own personalities, their strengths and their weaknesses before beginning to master the skills needed to become successful business people. Of the 54 learners, 46 have completed the learnership, including a final summative assessment. Many have been declared competent and, more importantly, a large percentage have established successful, sustainable businesses. 21
(Above and left) Jubilant learners on their last day of training. (Pictures courtesy of QASA)
Siyaya Project
This is a collaboration between the eThekwini Municipality, the LGSETA, the Department of Labour and the CSD (DUT), from which more than 500 people have already benefited. Midway through the project learners were displaying increased self-confidence and refined personal and professional skills, improving their opportunities for employment. The chosen learnerships played a key role in supporting other projects such as the Early Childhood Grants-in-Aid Scheme and the Inanda-Ntuzuma-KwaMashu (INK) Agricultural Research Project.
... the first to successfully implement a skills development initiative for the benefit of its local community ... The Siyaya Model can provide a benchmark ...
Through this project, the eThekwini Municipality was the first to successfully implement a skills development initiative for the benefit of its local community. As the custodian and project management company, the DUT is confident that the project has achieved its mediumterm objectives and contributed to the enhancement of skills and qualifications of learners. The Siyaya Model can provide benchmarks for best practice replications.
ISETT SETA Learnerships
The international shortage of Information Technology skills is mirrored in South Africa, despite the large number of paper professionals in the industry. South Africa has an additional challenge in that the ICT industry has created its own barriers to entry for historically disadvantaged individuals. The ICT sectors education training authority, ISETT SETA, established under the Skills Development Act, aims to increase the pool of IT professionals through approved learnerships. By providing educational and industry support to learners, the industry contributes to addressing the objectives of the ICT Charter. The CSD has championed the following initiatives: Systems Support Engineer, Solutions Development and Desktop Support Learnerships a DUT partnership programme Based on previous research, learnerships
A holistic model ensured

learners gained theoretical and workplace learning, while volunteer workplace mentors were key to the success of the learnership.
gained
appropriate
theoretical
and
workplace learning. Volunteer workplace mentors provided exceptional guidance and support, which was the key contributor to the success of the learnership. The Solutions Development Pilot
Learnership served as a vehicle to create a pool of programming specialists and, as a
result of exposure to high calibre projects, new ideas and software is being generated. Historically disadvantaged individuals of varying IT backgrounds were supported to pursue a career in software programming. The Desktop Support Learnership is aimed at individuals who have no prior knowledge or experience in Information Technology. In 2005 Business Connexion adopted 170 unemployed learners as part of their social responsibility programme. This programme is a partnership between Business Connexion, the ICT sectors education training authority, ISETT SETA and DUT.
meet the demands for specific information technology competencies in South Africa, by producing well-rounded IT professionals who have a sound technical foundation as well as business skills. A Systems Support Engineer Learnership at the Durban University of Technology was piloted with Siemens Business Services and Business Connexion. Both employed and unemployed learners benefited from training. A holistic implementation model ensured learners
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at NQF 5 levels have been developed to
Early Childhood Development Learnerships
Through this programme the CSD provides an opportunity for crche owners to gain the skills to become self-supporting, alleviating dependence on grants, improving the quality of childcare and enabling owners to grow their businesses in rural areas. In the programme there are 25 unemployed learners and 20 employed learners, who are the beneficiaries of the eThekwini Grant-inAid Scheme. Because of varying levels of childcare learning and experience, both NQF 2 and NQF 4 learnerships are under way.
Childcare experts are contracted as external mentors to provide guidance to learners.
This comprehensive training programme, facilitated in both isiZulu and English, provides childcare and business skills. Learners acquire the skills to care for infants, toddlers and pre-schoolers, as well as the basic business skills required to manage their crches. Childcare experts are contracted as external mentors to provide support and guidance. The possibility exists for individuals to establish municipal crches to service the large number of municipal employees who leave their children at day-care centres.
ICT Development for Rural KZN Entrepreneurs
Rural small businesses in the Sobonakhona Makhanya traditional area in KwaZuluNatal are showing an increase in economic activity. Research projects, designed to contribute to economic development through teaching small enterprise owners computer and business skills, were developed at the Durban University of Technology within the NRF-funded research niche area, Information Communication Technology (ICT) and Development headed by Professor Nips Nepal. The team of researchers was led by Dr Marie de Beer, a Research Fellow in the Faculty of Commerce, and the Dean of Commerce, Professor Malcolm Wallis. The key objective of the research project was to make a tangible contribution to bridging the digital divide within the context of rural and/or under-served (with respect to ICT) communities in KwaZulu-Natal. The primary intention was to contribute towards sustainable socio-economic development. A group of 40 participants from
Small business entrepreneurs from Sobonakhona Makhanya traditional area, at their graduation ceremony.
potential to motivate them to carry out their own research. For the next phase, two reasonably large clusters of RSEs have been identified in this rural area. The larger of the two is a self-formed agricultural co-operative of 39 members; the other is a combination of 10 seamstresses, hairdressers, construction workers, builders and mechanics. Small shipping containers will house computers, termedInteractive Kiosks, to be linked to the Internet. The aim is for the RSEs to become
established in their own computerised applications and to communicate on the Internet. It is anticipated that the clusters will form a core of action research for economic expansion in the region. The DUT held a mini-graduation ceremony to award certificates to a group of 34 small business entrepreneurs at a ceremony at Adams College in December 2005. The main researchers on this project were Delene Heukelman, Tanya Jacobs and Marie de Beer. 23
Umbumbulu, south of Durban, was selected to undergo training in computer literacy and business skills, which included using an isiZulu user interface for the accounting package. Demand for the training was so high that researchers were obliged to continue offering the modules and, in total, more than 100 small enterprise owners have now received the computer literacy and business skills training. In the past three years, eight students have received bursaries from the National Research Foundation (NRF). They were actively involved in the administration of the project, including helping to prepare the isiZulu interface. Through this involvement they have been exposed to research methodology which has the
Research outputs
De Beer, M., Heukelman, D., Jacobs, T. and Wallis, M.A.H. ICT -linked development in rural KZN - Sobonakhona Makhanya taditional area. Proceedings of Community Informatics for Developing Countries Conference. 31 August - 2 September 2006, Cape Town, South Africa. Heukelman, D. Can a user-centred approach to designing a user interface for rural communities be successful? ACM Transactions on Computer-Human Interaction. 2006. Jacobs, T. and De Beer, M. Increasing economic activity of small enterprises in rural KZN. Conference proceedings of CIMA-Management Accounting Research Conference, September 2005, Cape Technikon, Cape Town, South Africa. Jacobs, T., De Beer, M. and Kharwa, S. Poor financial systems threaten survival of rural business in developing countries. International Research Conference for Accounting Educators, 29-30 September 2005, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France. Heukelman, D. Computer user interface design issues for rural communities. August 2005, CIRN Conference. De Beer, M. and Jacobs, T. Poor financial management systems and a lack of economic development threaten survival of rural businesses in developing countries. Presentation at SAAA Conference, July 2005, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. De Beer, M., Heukelman, D. and Njobe, P. Corporate computer systems: sharing facilities and skills. ITIRA Conference, 2003, Australia.
Taking Science-to-Laboratory Teacher Development
Research has shown that in order to address the quality of graduates at HEIs, the quality of education received at schools must be excellent. Implemented by the Department of Chemistry in 2000, the key purpose of this project is to empower rural high school science teachers in previously disadvantaged KwaZulu-Natal. The research project set out to ensure that Grades 10, 11 and 12 teachers had the essential skills to deal with the challenges facing the education system in the new millennium. The project coordinator is Mr Zakes Mabaso, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry. The research is of a non-formal nature, with science teachers from rural areas taking part in workshops facilitated by the Department of Chemistry during weekends and holidays. Teachers are trained in chemistry, with a focus on laboratory organisation and practice, areas in which
Physical Science learners carry out an experiment during a Saturday class.
during school holidays and on Saturdays. Mr J T Msukwini, a facilitator for the project, provides background information and the theory of chemistry experiments in a pre-laboratory talk, assists in the training of science teachers, demonstrates experiments and revises Grade 11 and 12 chemistry theory with learners. Data is now being gathered to assess the
(Above and below) A DUT facilitator demonstrates chemistry experiments to students who, otherwise, merely read about these in their text books.
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most rural high school teachers are underskilled and ill-equipped. Mr Mabaso has secured funding for the training of science teachers and learners and a large number of high school physical science teachers have been trained in the use of laboratory equipment and conducting Grade 11 and Grade 12 practicals. In addition, approximately 300 matriculants studying physical science were able to carry out chemistry experiments described in their text books in sessions conducted
impact of this initiative on high-school learners so that the project can be replicated throughout South Africa.
Tholulwazi User Interface Localisation Project
Developments in the field of Information Technology have paved the way for reforms in education. However, two key issues continue to challenge many South Africans: inadequate levels of computer literacy, and the almost exclusive use of English in the user interface. The unique Tholulwazi research project involves translating free, English-based Open Source Software into isiZulu to make Computer Studies in rural schools more accessible to learners whose mothertongue is isiZulu. Tholulwazi, which translates as get informed, was established by Miss Mandy Njobe, a Lecturer in the Department of Information Technology. She translates Open Source Software (OSS) user interfaces into isiZulu. OSS is written by OpenOffice. org.za from free programmes produced by UNIX. Translating the software into isiZulu was a joint project between Tholulwazi and Translate.org.za, a non-profit organisation established by Dwayne Bailey. All translation programmes are headed by Bailey, with the help of funds from the Department, the Shuttleworth Foundation, Obsidian Systems, St James Software and HewlettPackard (South Africa). Another partner in the project is the DUTs Department of
(Above and below) successful Tholulwazi learners. Ms Njobe assists adult learners using isiZulu interface software.
Language and Translation in the Faculty of Arts. The User Interface Localisation Project set out to understand the human-computer interaction in a learning situation and, in this case, studied second language learners in KwaZulu-Natal, thus examining a different angle of user interface: language. During the course of her research, Ms Njobe has carried out many visits to schools and she continues to be involved in translateathons. In addition to her translation work, Ms Njobe has introduced the free-to-use and notably, easy-to-use software to technologically disadvantaged schools in KwaZulu-Natal, as well as to many students from the DUT. Tholulwazi, funded by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and DUT, has
The ethos behind Ms Njobes work is that previously disadvantaged students, specifically, must be given better, easier ways to learn.
awarded four bursaries in three years to Information Technology students. The ethos behind Ms Njobes work is that previously disadvantaged students, specifically, must be given better, easier ways to learn new things. 25
Research presentations
Njobe, P. Introducing localised Open Office Software to KwaZulu-Natal disadvantaged schools. SAARDHE 2005, 27-29 June 2005, UKZN, Howard College Campus, Durban, South Africa. Njobe, P. IsiZulu Open Source Software: a Bill-free Gate to literacy. DUT Conference Paper, 21 September 2005, DUT. Njobe, P. Localisation of the human computer interaction, DUT Conference Paper, 2004, DUT. De Beer, M., Heukelman, D. and Njobe, P. Corporate computer systems: sharing facilities and skills. ITIRA Conference, 2003, Australia.
Researchers from the DUT are working with communities in and around the city of Durban in eThekwini to promote, develop and manage sustainable resources. Community research projects in rural and urban settings focus on food security and poverty alleviation, renewable energy and the environment. Methods span technologies: one project brings water to a community garden on which an orphanage for AIDS children is reliant, through the use of ram-pump technology. This has attracted the attention of international research and development bodies involved in recovering lost technology. Another brings cutting edge mathematical cognitive modelling and computational intelligence to the fore in an effort to understand and resolve complex, dynamical systems, such as sustainable wildlife management.
The Inanda-Ntuzuma-KwaMashu (INK) Agricultural Project
Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu, including Amaoti, were, historically, so-called townships of the apartheid era in South Africa. They sprawl across large areas northwest of Durban, and adult communities today comprise a mix of labourers, bluecollar and white-collar workers, as well as increasing numbers of business owners and upwardly mobile corporate employees. However, there remains a disproportionate number of unemployed people and, for a great many people, it is a daily challenge simply to put food on the table. The INK Agricultural Project is a sub-project of a larger organic farming scheme expressly designed to address poverty alleviation. The aim of the Agricultural Project is to contribute towards increasing food security and commercial farming through training and development. Researchers from the Centre for Skills Development (CSD) of the DUT are driving this initiative. Some 50 hectares of land in the INK area has been set aside for five years for agricultural farming. Each learner has been allocated a plot of land to farm. The project has developed from a learnership-driven perspective, to one involving more sectoral representation in order to ensure its sustainability after the learnership phase. A steering committee, comprising volunteers from relevant sectors, has been established and meets regularly. While 100 learners were originally selected for training in organic farming, the interest shown by informal farming communities in the area resulted in this number being exceeded. In addition, 30 people older than 60 (a requirement for learnerships was that students be under 60 years of age) were enrolled in a short course to ensure they were not excluded from the learning process.
A practical assessment is carried out , in the field, with a learner Emerging farmers are able to put food on the table, grown in their own sustainable gardens. Learners are successfully cultivating plots of land, in Amaoti, Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu.
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Skills learned include permaculture, soil
For a great many people

it is a daily challenge simply to put food on the table.
fertilisation and planting. Most learners are enthusiastic and participatory. The learning takes place at Newlands and KwaMashu at a simulated farming site where the land has been cleared and seeds planted, which provides hands-on experience. Since there is no workplace or employer, 25 people mostly community leaders have been selected for, and are undergoing, mentorship training to support and guide learners.
Sustainable Water Pumping in Fredville (Inchanga KZN)
This ongoing project began in November 2004 at Fredville, a rural township at Inchanga, some 50 kilometres west of Durban. In this new venture, a ram-pump is used to provide water from a perennial stream for a community garden to feed children orphaned as a result of AIDS. The project was identified by the Treetops Mission and developed in conjunction with THR funding. The rural orphanage is run by the Fredville community and the garden is managed by women in the community to provide vegetables, or funds derived from such, to maintain the orphanage. Henri Pierre Bonnet, a Lecturer in the Department of Power Engineering,
The ram-pump installation at Fredville.
an average of one litre/minute in winter and up to five litres/minute in summer. Three THR students have participated in basic research in this field of Applications Technology. Mr Maarten van der Wiel [THR] returned from the Netherlands and conducted indepth research for his Honours degree (November 2005 - January 2006) under the field guidance of Mr D Alcock, both onsite and at the Mr Alcocks test-bed at his residence in Kloof. This project and its application in the recovery of lost technology (through its use of a ram-pump), has drawn interest from, among others, the international research and development body, Engineers without Borders. In addition, the site was visited by two members of Johns Hopkins University (JHU), Baltimore, USA, during an exploratory tour of potential projects in South Africa. Mr Bonnet fostered academic, cultural and social links with the JHU group during their stay with Mr Alcock in January 2006. As a result, the project is being extended and will involve students and engineers from JHU.
advised and participates in the scoping, implementation and roll-out exercises, in conjunction with THR and the local community, and with research and 28
development in ram-pump design and prototyping. A constant flow of pumped water fills a 500-litre water reservoir from which crops can be watered, with minimal effort, by the women. The system, which has been in continuous operation since 2004, provides
(The) recovery of
lost technology has drawn interest from international research and development bodies, including Engineers without Borders and Johns Hopkins University.
Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Maize Meal to Improve its Nutritional Value
In South Africa malnutrition is the focal point for a number of social and health problems, with the most prevalent diseases responsible for high juvenile mortality being HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. Moreover, throughout Africa cereal gruels and sourdoughs low energy and nutrientdense foodstuffs are frequently used as complementary foods for children. However, the digestibility of starchcontaining foods in young children is limited due to an inadequate secretion of pancreatic -amylase. The efficient digestion of starch is also important to specific groups of people, such as infants under six months of age, immuno-compromised people and geriatric patients. Improving starch digestion in children and adults is therefore a major challenge in developing countries, where starch constitutes a major ingredient of the staple diet. Dr Thiriloshani Padayachee, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology, is investigating Nutrigenomics, the interface between the nutritional environment and cellular/genetic processes: in this case, the enzymatic hydrolysis of maize, to increase its nutritional value and efficiency of digestion. Nutrigenomics seeks to provide a molecular genetic understanding of how common dietary chemicals, affect health by altering the expression and/or structure of an individuals genetic make-up. The fundamental concepts of the field are that the progression from a healthy phenotype to a chronic disease phenotype must occur through changes in gene expression, or by differences in activities of protein and enzymes; and that dietary chemicals, directly or indirectly, regulate the expression of genomic information.
A severely malnourished child, one of thousands starving in Africa (courtesy markdroberts.com).
Poor digestion of starch may have other negative effects, for example on the utilisation of proteins and minerals and the availability of certain vitamins. The objective of the research is to develop novel enzymes and tailored bio-processing technologies for cereal (maize) food raw materials in order to obtain higher-quality food products. This was achieved by optimising the enzymatic hydrolysis of maize starch, which has the potential to play a significant role in improving the nutritional value of maize meal. Research results showed that the possibility and potential for augmenting food quality and developing functional foods improved nutritional and health status. These foods will assist in improving the quality of life of people within communities who consume these foods daily. 29
In South Africa
malnutrition is the focal point for a number of social and health problems ... [with] diseases responsible for high juvenile mortality being HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis.
Improving the nutritional value of maize, a staple food in Africa and other developing countries, is key in fighting malnutrition.
Commercialisation Potential of Local Traditional Vegetables
Despite South Africas enormous richness in plant species, relatively few of these plants are economically utilised. Business ventures usually developed from the use of indigenous plants include trade in medicinal and cultural plants, food crops and ornamental plants. South Africa considers her indigenous plants a valuable natural resource and accepts responsibility to conserve unique flora. Traditional vegetables are extremely
Food security is a crucial research area in Africa.
of traditional leafy vegetables. This is done through: The development of baseline data regarding utilisation and nutritional value Obtaining support from farmers, consumers and government agencies to promote commercialisation of traditional leafy vegetables within food security, nutritional and agricultural programmes Developing appropriate technologies through research for increasing and production, preservation Improving leafy vegetable production through genetic and chemical studies. processing
important for nutrition and farm income throughout Africa. However, traditional African culture has been specifically influenced by contact with European culture. This has led to changes in the dietary habits of traditional African communities, with people moving away from indigenous foods to more highly refined (Western) diets. The Plant Biotechnology Research Group 30
Current activities
Traditional African potatoes, or madumbis.
The group has investigated plants with high nutritional value and is manipulating these for increasing yield using molecular techniques. There is great potential, for instance, in the development of novel commodities such as soaps, shampoos, disinfectants and phytomedicines from plant compounds. The Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology has compiled information pertaining to the nutritional composition and uses of local traditional plants used in KwaZulu-Natal, which is to be published in brochure form and distributed to local communities. Candidate plants and plant products have been identified for commercialisation. The project therefore holds cultivation potential for local communities, creates
is leading this exciting research area. This team is comprised of members from the Departments of Biotechnology and Food Technology, and Medical Technology and is headed by Professor Bharti Odhav. The main aim is to harness the knowledge around traditional leafy vegetables and to exploit this knowledge to develop novel compounds, which will provide nutritional, agricultural and medicinal benefits. Research in the Department of
Biotechnology and Food Technology aims to contribute to food security through improving the nutritional status of the urban and rural poor, and to support scientific data for the commercialisation
Cultivating traditinal vegetables.
entrepreneurial opportunities and has the potential to empower local agronomists.
Research outputs
Okole, B. and Odhav, B. (2004). Commercialisation of plants in Africa. South African Journal of Botany 70: 109-115.
The KwaMajomela Water Project
In July 2005, the KwaMajomela community in northern KwaZulu-Natal was jubilant when clean, running water was delivered to them for the first time, thanks to a research project conceived and carried out by the Department of Power Engineering. The community has since taken over the equipment, which will ensure a reliable supply of potable water for the future. The project began at two sites in 2000 when the DUT, in conjunction with Mr Mike Witherden from the Department of Power Engineering at the DUT, sourced funding from Savannah State University (United State), ProCon GmBH (Germany), USAID and others. As no grid electric power was available at the time, a hybrid renewable energy source was designed to supply power to water pumps. Site 1 was designed to comprise two hybrid energy pyramids with solar voltaic cells, a wind generator and a liquid petroleum gas (LPG)-powered generator feeding a battery bank. This supplied power to a borehole pump that pumped water to two 2 000-litre tanks. Site 2 comprised one hybrid pyramid, as per Site1, but was to pump water from a spring about 500-metres from the site. This project was halted when funding stopped, and the sites were subsequently vandalised by the local populace. The project could not, however, be wound up since the equipment belonged to the community via the funding from international partners. DUTs Centre for Research Management and Development (CRMD) then requested that Mr Frederick DAlmaine, from the Department of Power Engineering, complete the project. Funds were later obtained from the CRMD, which provided for the three pyramids being brought to Durban from Nongoma for rebuilding, all existing equipment being cleaned, tested and repaired, missing equipment in the
King Zwelithini turns on the tap at a ceremony to mark the completion of the project that saw clean drinking water brought to the community of KwaMajomela, in rural KwaZulu-Natal. Jubilant children celebrate the arrival of potable water in their community.
Clean drinking water

was delivered to the community for the first time, amid great excitement and jubilation.
pyramids replaced and, by mid-July 2005, the completion of Site 1. Clean drinking water, via a tap, was delivered to the community for the first time, amid great excitement and jubilation. While delays occurred at Site 2, it was commissioned and water was delivered, via 31
the tank to the tap, as designed, to the great joy of the local community.
Myeka High School Energy Project
Myeka High School, in the Ndwedwe district, was one of more than 16 400 schools in South Africa without electricity. A unique energy-efficient project was carried out which, with sufficient community support, has the potential to be implemented countrywide. The community surrounding the school was conscious of the need for development and welcomed the opportunities of having the school electrified, as well as the partial electrification of the courthouse and the proposed electrification of the clinic. The project began in 2000 to offer academic assistance in developing an energy-efficient structure to provide electrical energy using Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs). It involved the development, set-up and integration of a photo-voltaic hybrid 220V power system, comprising photo-voltaic modules, batteries, inverters and a LPGpowered back-up generator. The power was used to provide electricity to two computer laboratories, a staff-room and two science laboratories. As electricity demand grew, a biogas unit that aided and improved ablution facilities with biogas and humus by-products was developed and commissioned. Classrooms were wired for basic lighting as a further enhancement. The combined use of solar, cellular and satellite technology represented a first in southern African schools and, as a result, Myeka High School was able to open a computer laboratory equipped with the latest in personal computer technology.
A system comprising photo-voltaic cells and a generator was installed at Myeka High School.
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The functional bio-gas/humus by-products system installed at Myeka High School.
Henri Pierre Bonnet, a Lecturer in the Department of Power Engineering who led the project, has long been associated with, and involved in, community outreach projects. For the purposes of research, his academic assistance is directed at extending interest and collaboration in, and/or applications of, RETs. His current involvement is of an informal nature based on bi-lateral interest, trust and the sharing of appropriate knowledge. Mr Bonnet advises and participates in scoping, implementation and rollout exercises in conjunction with Solar Engineering Services (SES), Winrock International, the Department of Mineral and Energy Affairs (DME) and DELL Computers and Valley Trust, among other non-governmental organisations.
(With the) combined use of solar, cellular and satellite technology ... Myeka High School opened a computer laboratory.
Research outputs
Bonnet, P., and Andrew, T. Challenges in providing sustainable renewable energy to rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal: a case study of the Maphephethe community. International Conference on Domestic Use of Electrical Energy, April 2003, Cape Town, South Africa.
Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs) in Agriculture: A Demonstration Site
T
of
This is a combined project to demonstrate the use of Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs), in agricultural application. Henri Pierre Bonnet, a Lecturer in the Department Power Engineering, advises and participates in scoping, implementation and roll-out exercises in conjunction with the Dundee Research Centre. The project aims to create interest in applications of RETs
An aerial view of a proposed site for RETs in rural KZN.
among the local farming community (tribal, subsistence and commercial). The site incorporates a small-scale dairy providing bio-material feedstock to a digester. The humus is used as fertiliser and feedstock (via reed-bed) to an aquaculture project. Future association with and expansions of technology at the Dundee site in KwaZuluNatal will be maintained.
Water and Membrane Technology
The Department of Chemical Engineering continues to gain recognition as a leading practitioner of chemical engineering teaching and research. It remains engaged in several industrial- and communitybased consulting projects and is recognised specifically for its expertise in membrane technology, cleaner production technologies, curriculum development and design nationally. The research focus of the Water Technology Group (WTG), in the Department
A CUF unit installed on a farm near George, in the Cape.
The flagship membrane project over the past three years has been the development of a capillary ultrafiltration (CUF) system for drinking water production, in partnership with the Institute of Polymer Science, University of Stellenbosch. This system is aimed at rural and peri-urban areas in developing economies. The project received a major boost in 2003 when Amatola Water, in the Eastern Cape agreed to evaluate the system with a view to commercialisation. The Floating Media Separator (FMS) was developed in South Africa and patented by Wren Technologies (Pty) Ltd. This process has great potential in the pre-water treatment of high turbidity raw waters, but has not been previously evaluated in this application. The Department of Chemical Engineering and its partners have entered into an agreement with the inventors to develop this process for portable water treatment applications.
A single-module CUF unit, installed on a farm near Pietermaritzburg, in KwaZulu-Natal.
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of Chemical Engineering, is in the development of innovative processes for the production of drinking water and the treatment of industrial wastewater, with special emphasis to the application of membrane technology in these fields. Professor VL Pillay is the leader of this research group.
Chromium Contamination of Groundwater
The Centre for Water and Wastewater Technology, within the Department of Chemical Engineering, was established in 1996 to research the treatment and purification of water and wastewater. Its main functions are to develop suitable technology for remediation of domestic and industrial streams, and to develop inexpensive settlements. A key project is investigating Chromium (6) contamination of groundwater in the Durban South Basin area, in order to inform and assist the community in an effort to resolve this major problem in the area. Professor Faizal Bux from the Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology serves as scientific advisor for the South Durban Community Environmental technology to provide safe water to rural areas and informal
Alliance (SDCEA). He assists the SDCEA and the Merebank Ratepayers Association (MRA) with representation on a task team
set up to identify, expose and advise on
A key project is investigating Chromium (6) contamination of groundwater in the Durban South Basin area.
contamination by hexavalent chromium of groundwater in the Durban South Basin. Professor Bux is responsible for the analysis of borehole water, soil and sediments in the plume area and advises on the scientific aspects of the problem. Task team meetings are held regularly on site and members include the eThekwini Municipality, the Department of Water Affairs, MRA and the Bayer company. Analysis of the contaminated water is continuing and the task team is reviewing proposed remedial strategies to treat the groundwater. Professor Bux and his team ensure that the rights of the community are not infringed during this process.
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Testing the Quality of Water Stored in Shipping Containers
The Centre for Water and Wastewater Technology is involved in a project to test the chemical and microbiological quality of water stored in shipping containers, lined for potable purposes, and used by peri-urban community members in the Umbumbulu area. The communities are being advised on water quality and treatment of water to prevent outbreaks of disease following an approach to DUT by a non-governmental organisation, which provided and stored water in such containers.
Innovative use is being made of shipping containers, to store water for peri-urban communities.
Innovative Processes using Membrane Technology and Solar Energy
The Water Technology Group (WTG) is using membrane technology in an innovative process to supply potable water and to treat industrial wastewater. These involve water flowing through a series of high surface area membranes and chlorination, achieving high purification levels. Solar energy is being used in water pasteurisation to take advantage of the abundance of sunlight in South Africa. A project is under way to develop a valve-release system that will release water automatically when it reaches effective pasteurisation levels (65C). This would replace the existing method that uses wax, packaged in a small container and attached to cisterns, which melts at 65C. Water recipients in rural areas depend on manual readings, which are not dependable. However, there continues to be high morbidity and mortality from contaminated water use in rural areas. Currently the Centre is assisting the Institute for Zero Waste (IZWA) in its efforts to empower local communities through various projects. These include the composting of waste sludges on-site at wastewater works, where community members have taken responsibility for the process and use the compost for local vegetable gardens. This is a free service to the community provided by researchers from the DUT.
In the past two years, the Centre for Water and Wastewater has assisted NGOs, including World Vision, with analysis of borehole samples and river water, on request and free of charge. The Centre hosts Water Week each year, in conjunction with the South African Navy, at Salisbury Island in Durban. It takes the opportunity to use the forum to educate communities on the value of water and processes associated with the treatment of water and wastewater.
Research outputs
Ismail, A., Wentzel M. and Bux, F. 2006. Using respirometric techniques and fluorescent in situ hybridisation to evaluate the heterotrophic active biomass in activated sludge. Biotechnology and Bioengineering. In press. Ramdhani, N. and Bux , F. 2006. Functional characterisation of heterotrophic denitrifying bacteria in activated sludge. South African Journal of Science. In press. Ramothokang, T.R., Naidoo, D. and Bux, F. 2006 Morphological shifts in filamentous bacteria isolated from activated sludge processes. World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology. Published online & In press. Simelane, S.C., Ramothokang, T.R. and Bux, F. Biological nitrogen and phosphorus removal by filamentous bacteria in pure culture. WISA Biennial Conference and Exhibition, Durban ICC, 21-25 May 2006. Padayachee, P., Ismail, A.A.H. and Bux, F. Elucidation of the microbial community structure within a laboratory scale activated sludge process using a combination of molecular techniques. WISA Biennial Conference and Exhibition, Durban ICC, 21-25 May 2006. Mthembu, N.N., Ramothokang, T.R. and Bux, F. Evaluation of growth characteristics of filamentous bacteria using optimised isolation techniques. WISA Biennial Conference and Exhibition, Durban ICC, 21-25 May 2006. Ramdhani, N. and Bux, F. Denitrifying bacteria isolated from activated sludge. IWA World Congress and Exhibition, 10-14 September 2006, Beijing, China. Ramothokang, T.R., Naidoo, D. and Bux, F. Biochemical 35
A project is under way to

develop a valve-release system to release water when it reaches effective pasteurisation levels (65C).
(Above and below) The WTG is developing innovative processes for the treatment of industrial wastewater.
patterns of two H. hydrosis isolates. IWA World Congress and Exhibition, 10-14 September 2006, Beijing, China. Surujlal, S., Mavundla, N. and Bux, F. Isolation of microorganisms that have the potential to degrade endocrine disrupting chemicals in wastewater. 14th Biennial Congress of the South African Society for Microbiology, CSIR International Conference Centre, 9-12 April 2006, Pretoria, South Africa. Ramothokang, T.R., Mthembu, N.N. and Bux, F. Physiological and biochemical evaluation of pure cultures of filamentous bacteria isolated from activated sludge. WISA Biennial Conference and Exhibition, Durban ICC, 21-25 May 2006. Surujlal, S. and Bux, F. Detecting hormone endocrine disrupting chemicals. IWA World Congress and Exhibition, 10-14 September 2006, Beijing, China.
Community Research Projects: Centre for Systems Research
The Centre for
Systems Research (CSR)
The has
CSR,
through
its
researchers, for
headed by Professor Kevin Duffy, within the Department of Industrial Engineering, has developed a dynamic systems simulation approach. It uses sophisticated modern technologies, mathematical and computational techniques and intelligence for understanding complex systems for application in physics, biology, computer science, meteorology, economics, ecology and education. While its simulation approach can be used to study various research questions, most recently the CSR has invested effort, expertise and experience in using simulations for understanding the complexity of wildlife reserves. A complex system is a system of many parts with connections that usually include non-linear elements. Because they are nonlinear, complex systems are more than the sum of their parts. When many components in a system are non-linear, the differing behaviours within that system require sophisticated theories and technologies in order to create models to predict outcomes. Complex systems research studies such behaviours. Variables in complex systems often display complicated behaviours, which are difficult to predict. They can have relatively simple behaviours but, unlike linear systems, complex non-linear systems often present different behaviours at different times. In dynamical systems terminology, such a change in state is known as a bifurcation and non-linearity is required for a system to exhibit this. Part of complex systems research is determining whether any simple rules exist which may be used to describe the low dimensional behaviour of the system and to look for emergent properties of the system. The study of complex systems is bringing new energy to many areas of science and engineering where older methods of reduction have not worked. To understand complex systems they are often modelled using mathematical and computational techniques of dynamical systems, which include differential equations, difference equations, computational intelligence methods and agent-based methods.
Wildlife and ecology are non-linear systems that benefit from a computational approach to management.
developed
methodologies
understanding a variety of complex systems. In particular, the following methodologies have been used: Differential Computational and Ms E Dean Simulation modelling and agentbased methods: Professor K Duffy and Ms Jackson Geographic systems modelling: Mr A Hansen and Professor K Duffy Mathematical cognitive modelling: Dr R Naidoo and Mr Reddy Computational R Naidoo. The common thread is that these different computational approaches are sophisticated modern technologies for understanding complex systems. The aim of the NRF-funded Research Niche Area, Dynamical Systems Research, will expand on this approach by finding applications for important issues in a developing South Africa. In particular, the CSR is in the mathematics: Dr equations: Professor Dr S Moyo, Dr R Naidoo and Ms Mkhize intelligence: P Govender, Mr R Singh, Mr A Naicker
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The common thread is that these different computational approaches are sophisticated modern technologies for understanding complex systems.
process of initiating methods to analyse the following systems (an explanation of importance to South Africa as a whole is given): Natural systems: Wildlife ecosystems and biological systems. It is important to successfully manage ecosystems because of their crucial role in our countrys welfare and economy, through tourism.
Socio-economic systems: People movement demographics. The influx of people from rural to urban centres impacts on planning and development. HIV demographics. HIV is having a severe impact on all facets of life in South Africa.
Research outputs
Dai, X., Shannon, G., Slotow, R., Page, B.R. and Duffy, K.J. (2006). Short duration daytime movements of a cow herd of African elephants. J. Mammalogy. In press. Mackey, R.L., Page, B.R., Duffy, K.J. and Slotow, R. (2006). Modelling elephant population growth in small, fenced, South African reserves. South African Journal of Wildlife Research 36: 33-43. Dai, X., Page, B.R. and Duffy, K.J. (2006). Indicator value analysis as a group prediction technique in community classification. South African Journal of Botany. In press. Shannon, G., Page, B.R. and Duffy, K.J. and Slotow, R. (2006). African elephant home range and habitat selection in Pongola Game Reserve, South Africa. African Zoology. In press. Naidoo R. and Baboolal, S. (2005). Adapting two recent high-resolution numerical schemes and boundary conditions to model soliton propagation in a plasma fluid. Mathematics and Computers in Simulations 69: 457-466. Naidoo R. and Baboolal, S. (2005). A semi-discrete numerical solution of the plasma fluid equations and solutions. Review Bull. Cal. Math. Soc. 2: 77-82. Naidoo, R. 2005. A computational model of a brain tumour for smooth and shock wave solutions. Review Bull. Cal. Math. Soc. Moyo, S. and Leach, P.G.L. (2005). On some properties of ordinary differential equations invariant under translation in the independent variable and rescaling: the Lagrangian formulation. Journal of Mathematical Analysis and Applications 306: 35 54.
Industrial and engineering systems: power distribution systems, electronic systems and manufacturing / logistics systems.
Educational systems: Mathematics and physics students. Education is one of the greatest challenges facing South Africa.
Optimising Game Farm Management using Computational Intelligence
T
to
Game reserves are a major tourism attraction in South Africa. Like any other business, a game reserve has to be efficiently managed to ensure its sustainability. Techniques of industrial engineering can be applied optimise the management and sustainability of a game park One factor affecting the sustainability of a game park lies in the efficient management of its vegetation. Since grazers, such as elephants, consume high quantities of vegetation on a daily basis, the parks management must determine migration and feeding patterns. From this information a sustainability strategy can be developed. Determining migratory patterns requires a system of identification and techniques such as animal tagging and satellite tracking collars have been developed. Some identification systems use a scanner to pick up a signal from a microchip that is embedded within an animals anatomy. However, this technique is, in the case of wild animals such as elephants, dangerous. Tracking systems that use collars and data analysis are expensive and require interpretation by a skilled statistician.
Research into managing game farms is an area under investigation, with particular reference to elephant management.
Mr Cornelius Janse Lourens, from the Department of Industrial Engineering, and Mr Poobie Govender, from the Centre for Systems Research, have proposed techniques using computational 37
intelligence to overcome these drawbacks. An image identification system that makes use of neuro-computing techniques will be used to identify different animals within a herd. When implemented in real time, images from strategically located cameras process data to identify animals and determine migration patterns. This system provides a feasible method for planning the efficient use of a parks resources to guarantee sustainability of its ecosystems.
Research outputs
Lourens, C.J. and Govender, P. An elephant identification system using computational intelligence. Conference of the South African Institute of Industrial Engineers, 21-24 August 2005, Gauteng, South Africa. Lourens, C.J. Optimising the management of a game farm by utilising techniques of computational intelligence. 19th SAAIE & 35th ORSSA Annual Conference 2005, Emerald Casino Resort, 28-31 August 2005, Vandebijlpark, South Africa.
The South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA) Project
The Department of Chemical Engineering provides technical support to the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA) on environmental issues relating to developments and expansions to the chemical and allied industries in the south Durban region. It functions as the independent technical consultant and advisor to SDCEA in the Environmental Impact Assessment processes of all developments and expansions in the South Durban Basin. The scope of work varies depending on the complexity of the development and expansion, ranging from the assessment of EIA scoping reports, on-site assessments, identification of specialist studies (air quality and modelling and risk assessments, among others), and provides a peer review mechanism for all specialist reports. The Department is involved in the eThekwini
The cover of a publication from the Department of Chemical Engineering.
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Municipality Trade Permitting process and undertakes peer reviews of environmental performance reports and data relating to chemical plants receiving permits.
The scope ... ranges

from the assessment of EIA scoping reports, on-site assessments, identification of specialist studies (air quality and modelling and risk assessments, among others) ...
It has been integral to two Danish-funded community projects in the South Durban Basin that have resulted in the publications of two books.
Research outputs
DN/SDCEA publication (2005): Flaring at oil refineries in south Durban and Denmark. ISBN 0-620-34209-9. DN/SDCEA publication (2005): Permitting - A comparison between south Durban and Denmark. ISBN 0-620-34210-2.
Researchers from the DUT have, over the years, developed a rich and formidable body of research in the areas of language, design and visual identity. In all its research interactions with surrounding communities, DUT seeks to protect the indigenous design and craft, oral traditional knowledge and spiritual belief systems that reside in KwaZulu-Natal. One of the Research Niche Areas at the DUT funded by the National Research Foundation (NRF), viz., Appropriate Design Education for Sustainable Development, is providing valuable material to communities. Through DUTs French Connection, a rural community enjoys a monument on a tourist route that has been erected and paid for by an English queen, for a French prince killed by Zulu warriors. Other research includes investigations into whether community TV can encourage social change, and the impact of safety and security on tourists perceptions of holiday destinations.
Craft Collaborations: Shembe Beadwork
The art of beading has, largely, been lost to young people. However, members of the Shembe religion, an independent African church, support the use of African beadwork during religious ceremonies. Their beadwork makes use of both traditional techniques and non-traditional objects, such as wrist bands. These are produced in traditional colours, often because traditional beads have become virtually unobtainable. Mr Chris de Beer, Head of the Department of Jewellery Design, is researching Shembe beadwork with the objective of using traditional Zulu craft skills to develop a uniquely South African body of jewellery. This research is part of the NRF-funded Research Niche Area, Appropriate Design Education for Sustainable Development. The project seeks to investigate how indigenous craft and design knowledge of local craft producers can be developed to
(Above) Documenting the performances of Shembe dancers.
KwaZulu-Natal. These include the use of rubber in making Zulu sandals, known as ezimbadada; beadwork as practiced by Shembe bead workers; and weaving as employed by Ilala basket weavers. Mr de Beer has, additionally, been involved in documenting the performances of Shembe dancers who meet in a park across the road from DUTs City Campus. An exhibition in September 2004, Craft Collaborations, displayed Mr de Beers research activities so far. Held at the DUT Art Gallery, it played an important role in exposing his work to the wider design community. A rubber cutting display showed the process of reducing a white-wall tyre to a patterned strip, ready for making sandals, and this process was explained in a research report undertaken by Bonginkosi Tshabalala, for a B.Tech. degree project. The beadwork on display was the result of interactions between Ms Marlene de Beer from the Department of Jewellery Design and two Shembe women. The objective
Rubber cuttings for making sandals.
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create innovative products that may lead to sustainable income generation. The research has also created an opportunity for the community to value what they might consider commonplace, and to derive financial benefits from their skills. The more he interacts with the Shembe bead workers, the more convinced Mr de Beer becomes of the value of pursuing these skills to be cultivated within the department. With every passing year the emphasis on beadwork has become more focused. The research focus in the Department of Jewellery design currently hinges on exploring types of craftwork produced in
Beaded jewellery and rings in gold and silver.
was to understand the process of producing the beadwork in terms of technical issues, such as the colours used, the stitches used, and the way in which the beadwork fits into the lives of these women. An Ilala weaver, working in silver and gold, produced a range of rings, using traditional weaving stitches.
Research outputs
De Beer, C. Drawing on the Shembe: The search for a South African Jewellery. The Association for Qualitative Research Biennial Conference 2005, 13-16 July 2005, Melbourne, Australia. De Beer, C. Drawing on the Shembe: The search for a South African Jewellery. Design Indaba, February 2006. Cape Town, South Africa.
A Cultural Tourism Research Development Project: The French Presence in KwaZulu-Natal
G
The
Glen Flanagan, a Senior Lecturer in French in the Department of English and Communication at the Pietermaritzburg Campus of the Durban University of Technology, initiated the project titled French Presence in KZN: La Route du Prince Imprial, Louis Napolon. Department of English and
Communication has developed a relationship with the Uqweqwe people, whose settlement is next to the Prince Imperial monument in rural Nqutu. This community was brought into the project in 1995 and La Route was launched on 1 June 1996. The Uqweqwe community is comprised of about 6 000 inhabitants. Its rural school has received classrooms, rainwater tanks, fencing, gates, books and bursaries from the project. These efforts have extended from Jojosi Primary School to the Uqweqwe community at large. Through the French association the community enjoys a monument on a tourist route that has been erected and paid for by an English queen, for a French prince who was killed by Zulu warriors. The school has had the services of a French teacher, many French visitors including the French Ambassador, the French Consul General, Embassy staff, Foreign Legion and other VIPs from France and South Africa. French scouts and an international youth exchange group from Reunion Island worked in the community, where they spent R 25 000 under-pinning classrooms in the junior school. A 3rd year DUT French, Tourism Management student, Samkelesiwe Msane, taught French in the school and is studying in France for nine months after receiving a bursary. Every year on the anniversary of the death of the Prince Imperial, there is a commemorative ceremony next to the Prince Imperial monument, which forms part of a French week focus in the province. After 11 years, the project has the official support of the Department of Arts, Culture and Tourism for its community endeavours. The project brings benefits, through its unique cultural tourism connection, to all the communities touched by the progress of the project. Through the research component, the project has created multi-cultural links that have emerged. It has received local, provincial, national and international recognition through visits to national and international museums, France, historical Corsica, associations (England,
Department and community representatives at a new memorial to the Prince Imperial. Firm links have been established between the Uqweqwe community and, specifically, its learners, and DUT.
Switzerland, Germany, Reunion, Mauritius, Australia, St Helena), exchange exhibitions (with France and Switzerland), VIP attendance at ceremonies and research exchanges. For her efforts, Ms Flanagan was knighted by the French government in 1999 (Chevalier de lOrdre National du Mrite). She has been awarded the medal of the Institute of Higher Learning of the French National Defence Force (Institut des Hautes tudes de la Dfence National) and she received the Colin Webb Award for Individual Merit for the Promotion of Heritage Awareness. She is a Fellow of the International Napoleonic Society, an honorary member of Le Souvenir Napolon, of the Association des Amis du Muse municipal napolonien et dArt et dHistoires militaires, Fontainebleau, and of the Alliance Franaise. She was voted KwaZulu-Natal Best Tourist Guide 2003-2004 for her work in initiating a new cultural tourism product. 41
Research outputs
Flanagan, G. Exile, identity and the origins of cultural tourism: The case of the Prince Imprial, Louis Napolon. 8th French Presence in KZN Symposium, Msunduzi Museum, 26 May 2006, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
Baumann House, Tennyson House and the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) Community Research Projects
Community engagement is part of DUTs mission and one of the greatest challenges facing higher education practitioners. The objective is not only to incorporate the community into the curriculum, but to create authentic assessment of the students experiences. The Department of Interior Design has completed one project each year since 2003 and their industry partner is the South African Guild of Interior Designers (SAGID). SAGID identified communities in need through their own initiatives and approached DUT to use students design skills to assist needy communities. Materials and installation skills needed to physically implement projects have been sponsored by trade and industry. Media partner Garden & Home magazine has featured each project, giving credit to the contributing
The completed CROW Education Centre.
Ms du Toit. Thereafter, students are introduced to the community and the site before completing interior design concepts and solutions to meet the needs of the community. A winning scheme is selected by SAGID and the community. All students physically implement the winning scheme, using sponsored materials. Ms du Toit is completing a Masters in Education degree. She intends researching the implications of the benefits to students learning through community engagement within the Department of Interior Design.
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sponsors, SAGID and the DUT. Cally du Toit, a Lecturer in the Department of Interior Design, has been the project leader on the three projects carried out to date: Baumann House, a crche for visually impaired children from the ages of three months to six years; Tennyson House, a young womens street shelter in Umgeni Road and the refurbishment of the Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) educational centre. Mr Keith Pellew has championed the CROW project. A community project is selected by SAGID and the community brief and requirements for interior upgrades are prepared by
A student on site at the CROW Education Centre.
Research outputs
Du Toit, C. Integrating service-learning into the curriculum using CROW as a case study. SAADA Conference, DUT, 27-30 November 2005, Durban, South Africa. Pellew, K. Formalising service-learning as an integrated educational experience in the Department of Interior Design at the Durban University of Technology. First International Symposium on Service-Learning: Service -Learning Models for the 21st Century: Intercommunity, Interdisciplinary, International, 21 November 2005, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
Can Community Television Encourage Social Change?
Dr Mikhail Peppas, a Lecturer in the Department of Journalism, is the station manager of Greater Durban Television (GDTV). He sits on the board of the Durban Film School. The focus of his resarch project was visual anthropology linked to development support communication. Dr Peppas defined visual anthropology as a discipline associated with the use of photographs and moving images to reveal aspects of culture and social change. The main objective of this research project asks the question: Can community television encourage social change? The research was conducted through GDTV, Africas first community television station that went live in 1995. One of the strengths of GDTV was the opportunity it provided to amateur and indigenous filmmakers to have their productions broadcast into the homes of the local community. The productions were documentaries created by ordinary people that focused on their cultural milieu. Dr Peppas used GDTV as a laboratory to verify his hypothesis that moving images, generated by communities themselves, and taking into account the cultural dimension, can be used to encourage social change. GDTV went on air in June 1995 with a shortterm licence and, so far, it has been on air four times. GDTV is preparing to apply for a permanent licence once the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) announces invitations. The station is mainly run by young people in KwaZuluNatal, mainly in the greater Durban area, and experienced professionals. The television signals reach as far as Richards Bay on the north coast, inland as far as Pietermaritzburg and south to Umkomaas. Grades 11 and 12 learners requiring media skills are trained, at no charge, in production technology such as floor managing, mixing and interviewing. In the process, some are
Filming for GDTV. On set with GDTV, Africas first community television station.
noticed and approached by established
GDTV verified ... moving

images, generated by communities themselves, and taking into account the cultural dimension, can be used to encourage social change.
production houses, while working at GDTV. The station emphasises skilling girls and it encourages young film makers to tell stories about KwaZulu-Natal. The station uses volunteers from the Drama, Video Technology, Engineering, Entertainment Technology and Journalism departments, providing a platform for students to acquire hands-on experience. GDTV was used as a model for the recently launched Soweto Community Television Station (SCTV) in Dobsonville, Johannesburg, which focuses on HIVrelated programmes. GDTV has recently relocated from the BAT Centre to Albert Park, in a bid to support the Albert Park Renewable Project. 43
Reports
Mthembu, B. (2004). DIT students behind new Durban TV station. DITonline, June 18, http://www.dit.ac.za/ditonline [Accessed 11 May 2006]. Moodley, F. (2004) Filmmaker in bid to relaunch TV station. Sunday Times, [online] May 23, Available: http://www. suntimes.co.za [Accessed 11 May 2006]. Ntshingila, F. (2004). Durban poised to get own TV station. Sunday Times, [online] Jan 18, Available: http://www. suntimes.co.za [Accessed 11 May 2006]. Greater Durban Television Station launched (2004). SABC News. 19 June, 15h45.
The Albert Park Renewable Project
Dr Mikhail Peppas, a Lecturer in the Department of Journalism, is working together with Mama Jabu, who runs the Tropical Tourist and Information Centre at Albert Park in Durbans inner city. Together, they have initiated Rising Stars development centres, where youth in the area are encouraged to play soccer and music. The park is currently being upgraded and the terrace has been renamed the 2010 Jazz and Hip Hop Terrace. Sponsorships
Children living in the inner city are encouraged to play soccer in Albert Park as part of the revitalisation programme for the area.
are being attracted for the development centres. Dr Peppas is investigating whether soccer and music can be combined to uplift a community. Together with the residents of Albert Park, they are trying to establish why the area is degraded and, together with the residents, are seeking solutions. The aim is to revitalise Albert Park, currently known as a no-go zone for most people.
The Salt March
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The Salt March is an annual celebration of Mahatma Gandhis Satyagraha, or philosophy of non-violent resistance, linked to the Freedom Charter and the philosophies of Chief Albert Luthuli. The community in and around Durban march from the Gandhi settlement in Phoenix to the Natal Fort on the beachfront during this event. Dr Mikhail Peppas initiated the Salt March to draw attention to the fact that Mahatma Gandhi lived in Durban for more than 20 years, during which time he developed his Satyagraha concept. Dr Peppas is researching how his philosophy evolved, with particular regard to protest marches. He is also developing a script for a film, titled Empire at Ladysmith. Together with Ela Gandhi, the Mahatmas grand-daughter, Dr Peppas has been involved in Gandhi awareness campaigns for
the last 30 years. He believes the Salt March in particular has spiritual connotations and brings awareness to many other issues, including promoting global peace and ubuntu. Dr Peppas serves on the Satyagraha Committee. He and 3rd year students took part in the Satyagraha 100 years: 1906-2006 Conference at DUT in September 2006. Additionally, he attended a conference in September 2006 in London, organised by the Gandhi Foundation, of which Lord Attenborough is president. Dr Peppas presented a paper, titled Empire at Ladysmith: The Anglo-Boer War, Dickson, Gandhi and the Moving Image. The conference, The Film and History League, is scheduled to be held in Dallas, Texas in November 2006.
Reports
Kuppan, I. (2006). South Africa joins the Salt March. Daily News [online] March 31, Available: http://www.dailynews. co.za [Accessed 5 May 2006].
Remembering Mahatma Gandhi and his philosophy of non-violence, during the annual Salt March in Durban.
Newman, L. (2005). Durban walk commemorates Gandhis salt march. The Mercury [online] April 11, p.1. Available: http://www.themercury.co.za Centenary celebrations for the Satyagraha movement (2006). SABC News. 2 April 2006, 16h45.
The Impact of Tourist Perceptions of Safety and Security on Tourism Marketing in Mpumalanga
There are many factors which influence where tourists choose to go on holiday. One is the safety, or perceived safety, of a destination. Tourists do not want to be concerned about the possibility of violence when on holiday. To be successful, tourism must assure the safety and security of tourists and safety and security needs to be addressed as a strategic priority by local communities, private and public sectors as well as tourist organisations. A Department of Marketing research project found that tourists are more likely to choose a destination where risks to safety are perceived to be minimal and, if tourists are not or do not feel safe, they will not visit that destination again. Given the high level of competition to attract visitors in order to establish and maintain sustainable tourism, a country must be able to ensure the safety and security of visitors. The study found that more than any other economic activity, safety and security are essential in providing quality tourism. The success or failure of a tourism destination depends on it being able to provide a safe and secure environment for both tourists and the host population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate tourists perceptions of safety and security
The success or failure of tourist destinations, such as the Blyderiver Canyon in Mpumalanga, are dependent on their providing a safe and secure environment (courtesy of South African Tourism).
... tourists are more likely

to choose a destination where risks to safety are perceived to be minimal and, if tourists are not or do not feel safe, they will not visit that destination again.
after visiting Mpumalanga, to determine if they felt unsafe while staying and touring Mpumalanga and how they perceived safety in Mpumalanga. The research is quantitative in nature. The data was gathered from approximately 400 tourists in Mpumalanga. Respondents were extracted from popular tourist transport locations and were randomly selected to complete the questionnaire at the time of their departure. This research was led by Dr J P Govender, from the Department of Marketing. 45
Journeys of Healing, Identity and Empowerment
Funded variously by the National Research Foundation and the DUT, 15 researchers are actively engaged in research which impacts on issues of healing, identity and empowerment in their own communities, or communities with which they have a particular affinity. The numbers of people being affected, to a greater or lesser degree in a cascading process, is close to two thousand. All research is conducted from the insider-implicated (Stoller 1997) perspective to ensure the greatest degree of authenticity and to avoid, as far as possible, the distortion of outsider perspectives. The healing process, broadly-speaking, takes the form of expression of storytelling and personal histories, a variety of modes of song and dance, performance of traditional skills and expertise, the exploration of spiritual belief systems and practices, the mores and modes of social development
Members of the award-winning and internationally recognised Family Literacy Project from the Ndodeni area celebrate their learning. This project is led by Snoeks Desmond.
development of ubuntu education within a formal educational institution. To date some of the researchers have brought representatives of the communities with which they are engaged to the DUT for report back sessions: Azidle Ekhaya on 22 February 2005, and Ibuya Wethu on 1 December 2005. On each occasion, more than 100 people travelled to Durban from far-flung areas in KwaZulu-Natal, ranging from Nkandla in the north to KwaCele on the Eastern Cape border, many of them
Mxolisi Khawula, an imbongi from the Mthusi community on the Lower South Coast in KZN, performs an izibongo on the effects of HIV/AIDS. This project is led by Christina Ngaloshe.
46
and service to the community. The researchers are individually collecting data for their personal projects which will inform their formal postgraduate studies. However, the effect of the investigations and activities on the communities is of significance. It is becoming increasingly evident that this kind of engagement is raising self-esteem and morale: people are heartened by the interest of researchers in their concerns, and particularly the old knowledge of the oral tradition, where this is relevant. This interest is not confined to the elderly: increasingly the youth are engaging and challenging conventions within the traditions in ways that are both reinforcing and changing
for the first time. The visitors participated enthusiastically and it is reported by the researchers that communities are energised and enthused by the interest and investment in their knowledge and ways of being. Such interest translates into renewed community interest in, and appreciation of, the oral tradition of knowledge, and an increased sense of significance in the world. These include not only social mores, wisdoms and clan histories, but also healing and divining practices, modes and manners of building construction, animal husbandry, the sewing, tending and reaping of crops, engineering and mathematics, and how to track and hunt animals. Tracking and hunting animals provides a significant example of the relationship between oral traditional knowledge and modern knowledge. How to track and hunt animals in the wild is argued by some to be
the old traditions, while healing and empowering themselves in the process. The subject matter of such expression ranges across the effect of HIV/AIDS; grief, loss and bereavement; land- and homeloss; Zulu (male) identity; traditional Zulu modes of raising children, with particular reference to the mores surrounding sex and sexuality; traditional Zulu modes of slaughtering, skinning and butchering; traditional Zulu modes of healing and divining; becoming literate and its effects on families and communities; traditional Hindu spiritual belief systems; post-democratic Afrikaner identity; and the promotion and
as much as 150 000 years old. It is identified by Louis Liebenberg (2002) as the origin of science since tracking requires, like scientific endeavours in a laboratory, simple, systematic and speculative thinking, all of which form the basis of the capacity to read scribal writing. It is as well to remember that the San people of the southern regions of Africa are renowned for their ancient mastery of this disappearing human capacity, so frequently dismissed as culture. Such an understanding challenges
isiBhaca dancers from the Mthusi High School on the Lower South Coast, KZN, express their understanding of HIV/AIDS in oral traditional mode. This project is led by Christina Ngaloshe.
our understanding of (il)literacy. The oral tradition anywhere in the world is notoriously difficult to record because of its holistic and dynamic nature, hence so little is recorded with any acceptable degree or sense of reliability, authenticity and comprehensiveness. Oral traditions are recorded in memory and transmitted in three-dimensional performances. The recording of such knowledge in any archive other than memory requires the use of tools that cannot replicate the holistic and dynamic nature of the original form so that any record, even a holographic record, falls short of the real and the ideal. Essentially, the oral tradition is conveyed by the energy of the performance and the effect of that energy on our human sensory and intuitive capacities. The research, the reflection and reporting on the research is raising personal and group awareness, and so contributing to the realisation of the dream of a South African nation of healed, whole and empowered people with a clear sense of identity. The researchers in the group are registered for higher degree studies at the DUT. The working titles of their projects are:
understanding of personality among Zulu people with specific reference to induku as an anthropological, social interactional, and ceremonial performance from the cradle to the grave and beyond. Snoeks Desmond: Family literacy: A study of a holistic approach to adult education and its broader impact in South Africa. Christina Ngaloshe: Breaking the silence, addressing the confusion and challenging the denial surrounding HIV/AIDS by engaging tradition: a study of the mnemonic oral style, with special reference to Marcel Jousse. Theo Nyawose: Living in two worlds: Optimising our African indigenous knowledge to address the modern pandemic HIV/AIDS. Robert Sikhosana: The role of zesiZulu (clan praises) as inqolobane yamagugu kaZulu (an indigenous oral sociocultural archive) among Zulu clans in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal in a modern educational curriculum. Delysia Timm: Holistic education, community engagement and the biochemical nature of learning: Explorations and interfaces. Clementine Yeni: The role of education in land restitution, redistribution and
restrictions: individual, group and national empowerment through land reform.
M.Tech (Fashion):
Marlene de Beer: Journey of awareness: Exploring identity through design.
M. Tech (Education):
Bongani Jama: An investigation into elements of traditional healing with special reference to Isangoma. Martin Nxumalo: Healing through expression: Addressing grief, loss and bereavement in a rural school and its wider community. 47
M.Tech (Catering Studies):

Erasmus Mnguni: A study of Zulu traditional ritual and commercial slaughtering, skinning and butchering. Associated with the research teams is Ms Charl Fregona, who is registered with UKZN for a PhD, the working title of which is: Barriers to effective educational delivery in Web-based teaching and learning: quality, access and delivery in technology enhanced education. The projects are led by Associate Professor Joan Conolly of the Centre for Higher Education Development and mentored by Professor Edgard Sienaert of the University of Cape Town.
Postdoctoral studies:
Dr Sarres Padayachee: The sixness of Muruga, and the phenomenon of trance among Muruga worshippers in KwaZulu-Natal.
D.Tech (Education):
Jerome Gumede: Towards an
The Georgetown Project
The Georgetown Project is an Architectural Technology initiative carried out to preserve Victorian mud-brick buildings and the shale Potolozi building, now part of the provincial archive of vernacular buildings. It has also led to a city-wide historical and political tours route, which is available in both isiZulu and English to ensure community participation in tourism-driven heritage preservation. Ms Debbie Whelan, a Lecturer in the Department of Architectural Technology, worked with members of the Edendale community to repair the fabric of Victorian period mud-brick structures. Its contribution to the discourse of living in and working on adobe type structures, and the effects this can have on lives, perceptions and aspirations, were part of Ms Whelans greater study. In 2000, teachers from Edendale Higher Primary School in Georgetown approached Amafa aKwazulu-Natali, the provincial heritage body, for assistance with repairing a shale-constructed building, attributed to Andries Pretorius, and known colloquially as Potolozi. With funding from Sanlam, the building was repaired and, in terms of the corporate funding conditions, registered contractors were hired. At this time, Ms Whelan secured funding from the Pietermaritzburg-Msunduzi Municipality for an intern (Ms Genna Nashem) from the United States, who worked with her as part of the US/ICOMOS exchange summer programme. Ms Genna Nashem worked well with community members. Together with the Provincial Museum Services and the Natal Museum, she organised a wickerwork workshop and exhibition to garner support for recreating a furniture industry in Georgetown. An essay competition was run concurrently, titled Where do you see Georgetown in
Preservation of old structures is a priority of the Department of Architectural Technology.
10 years time? The adjudicated winner, Mr Sbusiso Gwala, was awarded an accredited tour guiding course, through which he has qualified to guide tours in the area. In 2003, Ms Whelan received additional funding training from the Pietermaritzburgfrom the DUTs Msunduzi Municipality to pay in-service students Department of Architectural Technology to measure up and document the mud buildings. The buildings have now become part of a provincial archive of vernacular buildings, and copies are lodged both at the Provincial Archives Repository in Pietermaritzburg and at the Barrie Biermann School of Architecture Library at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban. Ms Whelan employed a graduate
architectural technician to translate into isiZulu the guided tour that Ms Nashem had compiled, and to design plaques to attract sponsorships to be placed on houses in the precinct. The decision was taken by the Georgetown Project Committee to have the isiZulu interpretation completed first, as the need to cater for local people was seen as paramount in the education process. This was done, together with Mr Peter Croeser from the Natal Museum and with assistance from provincial museum services. The Georgetown Project continues to seek funding to repair the properties and connect them to a city-wide historical and political tourism route.
48
Working from the premise that a project of this nature can begin to inform approaches by the West towards dealing with other peoples cultures, the aim was that the levels of prescription should be rewritten to be more accommodating of different economic and perceptual places. Preservation of such structures would then become part of an economic norm, rather than being seen as an imposed set of preservation rules.
Research outputs
Whelan, D. (2005) Decorated architecture as a material culture. Southern Humanities, 15: 129-141. Whelan, D. Community participation as an essential part of tourism-driven heritage preservation in Georgetown, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa: 5th Annual US/ICOMOS International Symposium, 2005, Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Vision
A leading University of Technology in Africa, that nurtures holistic education and the advancement of knowledge.
Mission
To serve the needs of developing societies within a dynamic global context and to enable quality teaching, learning, research and community engagement by:
Providing
Quality, career-focused education, and
Promoting
A values-driven ethos Sustainable partnerships with industry, community and society Excellence in applied and relevant research, and
Empowering
Staff and students to succeed, and Ensuring university sustainability.
University Goals
These university goals chart the course that enables the university to realize its Vision for the future and to fulfil its Mission. The goals encompass all facets of the universitys values and advances DUTs vision to be a leading dynamic university. To promote learning through high quality programmes, research and support services that will produce competent graduates. To ensure that the institution is strategically positioned within a global context. To ensure institutional sustainability. To enhance quality of student life. To increase and enhance community engagement and partnerships. To attract and retain quality staff and promote staff advancement. To continuously provide improved quality services and infrastructure.

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About the cover

Skills Development - Contributing to the National Skills Development Strategy

Foreword by the Director: Research Management and Development

DUT: investing in the people of KwaZulu-Natal

impacting on communities is based on

Professor D (Gansen) Pillay

Message from the MEC for Education, KwaZulu-Natal

Developing an intellectual foundation for engaging with communities

applied learning and problem solving

Message from the President: National Research Foundation

Robust research programmes justify investment in DUT

The knowledge base is

Message from Council

On the brink of a major research breakthrough

I stand in awe and

Message from the Vice Chancellor and Principal

Maintaining and sustaining excellence with relevance

It is critical that research

Professor Bonganjalo C Goba

Message from the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic)

The way forward, through academic humility and service

Much good research can

Professor Malcolm Wallis

Defining Research and Community Engagement

The Siyazama Project

Art for Humanity

The Materials Development Project

Orphanages for Children Affected by and Infected with HIV/AIDS

Ukuba Nesibindi Centre

The Centre serves as a

critical resource to street vendors whose children

... a before and after

HIV structure (courtesy of Journal of Chemical Education).

Community Research Projects: Centre for Skills Development

Research has informed

Skills demand in the services sector

Demographic study of SMMEs in the services sector

Determination of scarce skills

Amasondo Esibindi - Wheels of Courage

ISETT SETA Learnerships

A holistic model ensured

Learnership served as a vehicle to create a pool of programming specialists and, as a

at NQF 5 levels have been developed to

Early Childhood Development Learnerships

ICT Development for Rural KZN Entrepreneurs

Taking Science-to-Laboratory Teacher Development

Tholulwazi User Interface Localisation Project

The Inanda-Ntuzuma-KwaMashu (INK) Agricultural Project

Skills learned include permaculture, soil

For a great many people

Sustainable Water Pumping in Fredville (Inchanga KZN)

Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Maize Meal to Improve its Nutritional Value

Commercialisation Potential of Local Traditional Vegetables

entrepreneurial opportunities and has the potential to empower local agronomists.

The KwaMajomela Water Project

Clean drinking water

Myeka High School Energy Project

The functional bio-gas/humus by-products system installed at Myeka High School.

Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs) in Agriculture: A Demonstration Site

Water and Membrane Technology

Chromium Contamination of Groundwater

set up to identify, expose and advise on

Testing the Quality of Water Stored in Shipping Containers