UKZN Engineering School receives R250 000 donation

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) School of Engineering received an initial contribution of R250 000 from Metair Investments Ltd to the UKZN Foundation.

In a teamed effort to advance engineering education and innovation, UKZN and the KZN subsidiaries of Metair Investments Ltd, comprising of Smiths Manufacturing (Pty) Ltd, Hesto Harnesses (Pty) Ltd, Automould and Unitrade 745 (Pty) Ltd, have established the KZN Engineering Industry Endowment.

The endowment also fosters excellence in engineering education. By channeling resources towards the School of Engineering at UKZN, the endowment seeks to fortify educational infrastructure and programmes, empowering students to excel in diverse fields such as mechanical, chemical, electronic, computer, mechatronic engineering as well as electrical engineering.

Metair Investments Ltd CEO, Mr Paul O’Flaherty, said, Metair Investments Ltd, together with its subsidiaries, greatly value its relationship with the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at UKZN and in particular, Prof Glen Snedden and his team.

“We appreciate the students who choose to conduct their vacation work at any one of the four mentioned subsidiaries. Top performing students are also offered permanent employment, post-graduation. We look forward to growing our relationship,” said Mr O’Flaherty.

Prof Snedden said he was grateful to Selvin Konar and his team at Smiths Manufacturing (Pty) Ltd and the larger Metair Group Ltd for their commitment to UKZN and the engineering students.

“They have demonstrated themselves to be dedicated partners in our efforts to improve the holistic education these students receive - in the classroom, in the laboratory and in the workplace. Through the creation of this endowment and by inviting other interested companies to join, it is my hope that together, UKZN and local industry can continue to improve on the high standards of education received at the university. This also ensures that this education stays world-class and adds to the growth of industry as well as the retention of skills that are needed in our country,” said Prof Snedden.

An appointed board comprising academic leaders, industry representatives, and key stakeholders will oversee the allocation of funds and ensure transparency and accountability in decision-making processes, said Prof Sneddon.

Annual reports detailing fund utilisation and outcomes will be shared with all stakeholders, providing insights into the tangible benefits derived from their contributions, said Prof Snedden. This commitment to transparency fosters trust and confidence, laying the groundwork for continued support and collaboration, he added.

“As stewards of the future, UKZN and Metair Investments Ltd are committed to ensuring the endowment’s enduring legacy. Provisions are in place to safeguard its sustainability, ensuring that future generations of engineers continue to benefit from enhanced educational opportunities and resources,” said Prof Snedden.