The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) and the Mpumalanga provincial government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration on sustainable development, innovation and job creation. The ceremony took place on Wednesday, February 25.

The agreement focuses on key priority areas, including hybrid rice innovation, AI-driven education initiatives, healthcare research, short learning programmes and improved service delivery, among others.

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UMP council chairperson Sabelo Mahlalela said the MoU establishes a formal framework for collaboration to enable provincial government to leverage the institution’s expertise, research capacity and human capital in support of development priorities.

“Strong economies across the world are built on deliberate partnerships between government, universities and industry. This collaboration will promote sustainable agriculture, innovation and applied research, and enhance government capacity through tailored training programmes,” he explained.

The Mpumalanga premier, Mandla Ndlovu, highlighted the urgent need for decisive action in addressing unemployment and inequality in the province.

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“Strategic investment in agriculture, agro processing and skills diversification – supported by research and innovation – will unlock new economic opportunities and position the province for long-term growth,” said Ndlovu.

UMP vice chancellor Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa reaffirmed the university’s readiness to translate vision into action: “We are committed to making an impactful contribution to the province through innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable development. Collaboration is essential if we are to create meaningful and lasting change.”