In February 2025, Professor Jeffrey Mahachi (University of Johannesburg) returned to NUST as part of a follow-up initiative under the HEP SSA-funded AfricaSETi project. His visit focused on 3D construction printing for affordable housing, offering an in-depth presentation on how UJ’s Sustainable Materials and Construction Technologies (SMaCT) research is addressing South Africa’s housing challenges using modern methods of construction (MMC).
NUST faculty engaged enthusiastically, particularly around joint research possibilities and sustainable housing innovations. The visit also included:
- A tour of NUST’s cutting-edge laboratories (materials, water analysis, and mining).
- A site visit to the Energy Efficient Demonstration House, showcasing practical, climate-resilient design.
- A roundtable with NUST leadership that led to the proposal of a formal MoU between UJ and NUST to support joint curriculum development, research, and staff/student exchanges.
“This visit reaffirmed the critical role of academic institutions in driving sustainable transformation in Africa.” – Prof. Mahachi
