28/10/2025
DAY 1 - Keynote Addresses
Delegates were captivated by powerful keynote addresses that set the tone for the days ahead.
Professor Emmanuel Mgqwashu from the University of KwaZulu-Natal shared thought-provoking perspectives on Research-Led Community Engagement for Enhancing Innovation in Teaching and Learning, highlighting the importance of collaboration and relevance in higher education.
Following that, Professor Michael Twum-Darko from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology delivered an engaging address on Entreprenetics: Transforming Research and Innovation for Commercialisation, challenging us to reimagine how academic research can impact industry and society.
These sessions have truly ignited reflection, conversation, and purpose, a reminder of why we gather under the banner of learning, teaching, research, and innovation for engagement.
The session concluded with an inspiring Lead Talk by Professor Nyna Amin from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, who unpacked Innovation at the Nexus: Where Learning, Research, and Engagement Meet. Her thought-provoking insights reminded us of the power of collaboration in shaping transformative, inclusive and future-focused education.
Delegates then enjoyed a well-deserved lunch break, filled with rich conversations, networking, and shared reflections on the impactful sessions.
As we head into the afternoon’s critical dialogues and workshops, the atmosphere remains one of curiosity, innovation, and community. Here’s to continued learning and co-creation!