Alliance University was represented at the International Week hosted by Durban University of Technology (DUT), South Africa. Dr. Arindam Das, Professor and Ph.D. Programme Director – Faculty of Liberal Arts and Sciences, participated in the event, which was organised in line with DUT’s Global Strategy 2025–2030 and its broader ENVISION 2030 framework. The event highlighted the importance of internationalisation in higher education and the role of intercultural competence in preparing graduates for an interconnected world.

Opening of the Programme

The International Week commenced with a welcome address by Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of DUT, followed by an opening plenary by Dr. Lavern Samuels, Director – International Education and Partnerships. The sessions set the tone for discussions on international collaboration and the future of higher education in a rapidly changing global environment.

Keynote Address

Dr. Arindam Das delivered a keynote lecture titled “Reimagining Higher Education: Decolonial and Sustainable Internationalisation from the Global South.” His address focused on the shared responsibility of institutions in the Global South to reframe higher education by valuing local knowledge, ensuring equity, and building sustainable global partnerships. He also highlighted the scope of South–South cooperation in higher education, positioning it as a necessary response to contemporary global challenges.

International Participation

The event brought together presenters and plenary speakers from universities across South Africa, Germany, Turkey, Ghana, Congo, China, and Mozambique, among others. The discussions provided opportunities to exchange ideas and strengthen intercultural perspectives in education.

Strengthening Partnerships

Beyond his keynote contribution, Dr. Das was instrumental in facilitating a new academic partnership between DUT and Alliance University. The two universities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote collaborative research, faculty and student exchanges, and mobility programmes. The agreement is expected to open new avenues for cooperation and knowledge exchange between the institutions.

Conclusion

The International Week at DUT provided a platform for dialogue on reimagining higher education through inclusive and sustainable practices. Alliance University’s participation reinforced its commitment to building meaningful global partnerships while contributing to discussions that shape the future of international education.