Richards bay: The University of Zululand this week marked a major milestone with the unveiling of new state-of-the-art facilities at its Richards Bay campus and the naming of the Engineering Department in honour of the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande. The new additions include a dedicated engineering building, 442 new beds, the refurbished Madiba House, and the Richards Bay Lodge.

According to South African Government News Agency, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation highlighted the ceremony’s significance by recognizing Minister Nzimande for his contribution to education and development. Humbled by the tribute, Nzimande reflected on his journey, expressing gratitude and surprise at having a university building named after him.

The Minister also unveiled two other buildings during the event. One was named after Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first democratic President, and another after Vuyani Cyril Gamede, a pioneering black engineer and former Chairperson of the University Council. In his keynote address, Minister Nzimande emphasized the government’s investment in infrastructure as a means to create a world-class learning environment.

He highlighted the importance of establishing an engineering department in the uMhlathuze District, given its industrial role as home to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest aluminium smelter, a major coal export terminal, and significant operations in minerals, chemicals, and agro-processing. Nzimande noted that the district’s contributions in these areas were crucial for local economic development, job creation, skills development, technology transfer, and international trade.

Minister Nzimande stressed the necessity of technological skills and innovation to meet these economic needs and lauded the decision to build the engineering department in this strategic location. He urged students to take responsibility for maintaining and protecting the new facilities, emphasizing their importance for future generations.