College of Economic & Management Sciences

Unisa's initiative to build smart and resilient cities gains momentum

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The Exxaro Chair in Climate and Sustainability Transitions, headed by Professor Godwell Nhamo, recently conducted a research visit to Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM)with a team of researchers from nine South African universities and representatives from the National Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment (DFFE) and the BCMM.

The Exxaro Chair in Climate and Sustainability Transitions, headed by Professor Godwell Nhamo, recently conducted a research visit to Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality.

The Exxaro Chair in Climate and Sustainability Transitions, headed by Professor Godwell Nhamo, recently conducted a research visit to Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality.

This visit marked the initiation of a comprehensive research project focusing on Marine Studies. Through a workshop at Unisa's East London Campus, the team co-created a research programme titled: "A Smart and Resilient Buffalo City," encompassing multiple inter-university projects to tackle coastal community challenges.

Commenting on the importance of collaboration in research, Nhamo stated: "Co-creating the research agenda fits well into the 3rd Mission (Engaged Scholarship) of universities and taking research to the grassroots."

Key research themes identified by stakeholders include ocean resource access, climate mitigation, disaster resilience, and smart city technologies, emphasising the need for innovative, technology-driven solutions to address local environmental challenges and enhance community resilience.

The Exxaro Chair in Climate and Sustainability Transitions, headed by Professor Godwell Nhamo, recently conducted a research visit to Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality.

Unisa is spearheading a multi-university collaboration to transform Buffalo City into a hub of sustainability and resilience, aligning with the Vice-Chancellor's call for innovative research in 10 catalytic niche areas.

Unisa plans to engage traditional leaders and local communities in BCMM for further consultations to finalise action plans and secure funding for project implementation. The BCMM has shown eagerness for continued collaboration, highlighting a mutual dedication to sustainable development.

The visit included tours of the East London port and a wastewater treatment facility, providing valuable insights for future collaborative research. This initiative signifies a significant advancement in leveraging research to address societal challenges and align with global sustainability and climate resilience goals.

*By Asanda Madikizela, Senior Administrative Officer, Institute for Corporate Citizenship, and  Tebogo Mahlaela, Communication and Marketing Specialist, CEMS

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Publish date: 2024-09-09 00:00:00.0

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