The Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics in Africa (ATUPA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of South Africa (UNISA) during the International Conference held on 26th August 2025 at the Southern Sun Hotel in Durban, South Africa. The two institutions were represented by Prof. Puleng Lenka-Bula, Unisa Principal and Vice-Chancellor, and Dr. Tafadzwa Mudondo, ATUPA Executive Board Chair. Dr. Jahou Samba Faal, Secretary-General of ATUPA signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on behalf of ATUPA and was witnessed by Mr. Suzgika Mvalo, the ATUPA Vice-Chairperson for the Southern and Central Region. The ceremony was further graced by Hon. Buti Manamela, Minister of Higher Education and Training of South Africa and Prof. Sello Mokwena, Chair of the Local Organising Committee for the jointly hosted ATUPA International Conference. In this collaboration, the two institutions aim to foster innovation and pivot youth skill sets for Africa’s rapid development and growth. Speaking on behalf of the ATUPA Executive Board, Dr. Mudondo welcomed UNISA to ATUPA and called for the immediate implementation of the key elements of the MoU. He expressed gratitude to the Minister for gracing the signing ceremony and urged “technical universities and other institutions in South Africa to…

In today’s world, technology and innovation continue to define the pace of progress. Guided by its strategic objectives, the Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics in Africa (ATUPA) has remained committed to promoting technology, innovation, and the empowerment of youth as catalysts for change. Since 2019, ATUPA has introduced the Youth Forum as a key feature of its Annual International Conferences. The Forum provides a dynamic platform for fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among young people. It brings together TVET student representatives from colleges, polytechnics, and universities across Africa, enabling them to share experiences, discuss challenges, and build lasting networks of cooperation. One of the highlights of the 2025 Youth Forum was the Innovation Exhibition, where a total of 33 groundbreaking projects were showcased. To ensure fairness, judges were carefully selected from institutions not participating in the competition and representing different countries. After a rigorous assessment, the top three winners emerged, reflecting the creativity, ingenuity, and future potential of Africa’s youth innovators. The top winner was Sustainasip team from Mutare Polytechnic, Zimbabwe. The title for their innovation was “Brewing a greener future: Unlocking the synergies between indigenous beverages and Industry 4.0. This team was awarded a prize…