A key part of our learning since the hubs started in 2019 is the importance of the creation of equalising spaces as we co-construct solutions to complex historical and contemporary challenges.
These equalising spaces seek to critically engage with our multiple stakeholder communities in a way which acknowledges and celebrates the knowledge and agency they bring to engagement at the university.
The recent signing of a memorandum of understanding with Ubuntu Pathways in Zwide represents one of many conscious efforts to engage and learn through solidifying and formalising partnerships.
“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to partner with Ubuntu Pathways,” said Univeristy Vice-Chancellor Prof Sibongile Muthwa, citing the chance this gives for the university to address societal challenges and contribute to the improvement of humanity.
Being in service of society lay at the heart of this endeavour, she said, noting “that, for us, is essentially the critical role of the university”.
Over 2020 and 2021, the coronavirus pandemic has presented the HoC with the chance to respond in a co-ordinated and purposeful way to a few of these challenges. This has involved conceptualising, developing and supporting various projects related to food sovereignty; personal and organisational wellness; gender-based violence; exploring community based economic initiatives, and supporting community-initiated projects.
The development of the concept of the Community Kitchen in collaboration with the iKhala Trust is one such project as, from initial support to “soup kitchens” in the Metro, the University realised that it was doing much more than feeding communities.
These community kitchens serve as points of convergence for various activities, including advocacy around the pandemic and critical thinking around sustainability.
A partnership with the Faculty of Engineering’s eNTSA entity and the University’s Emergency Medical Care is included in this collaboration which, among other projects, is piloting a fire killer product in partnership with an SMME, FireKilla.
These forms of engagements facilitated by the HoC help to provide this outward focus of generous, solidaristic, and reciprocal sharing of intellectual and other assets. They also provide a platform to understand how multiple forms of knowledge may be used to respond to the challenges of our time.
The FireKilla Pilot Project workshop held in April 2021:
Standing, from left: Mr Luvuyo Bokwe (Moeggesukkel Community); Shelly Canzibe (Kuya Feeding Scheme); Nqaba Nqceke (Yizani Sakhe Community Building Program, Wells Estate); Zukiswa Pupuma (Booysens Park Community Kitchen); Bryan Moulang (FireKilla); Oyama Mkaza (ETP); Bernie Dolley (Ikhala Trust); Gavin Jordaan (Harvest Community Projects); Nadine Goliath (eNtsa).
Seated, from left: Dr Julien De Klerk (eNtsa); Ms Unathi Meslane (Ikhala Trust); Dr Bruce Damons (Hubs of Convergence); Ms Nicole Collier-Naidoo (Hubs of Convergence); Vuyelwa Mtyaleka (Emama Nutrition*)