Unisa Strengthens BRICS Collaboration with Brazilian Universities, Focuses on Research and Academic Mobility

In a significant move to bolster international academic ties, the University of South Africa (Unisa) is reinforcing its links with Brazilian universities, particularly through collaboration with the Universidade de São Paulo (USP). This initiative aligns with the Principal and Vice-Chancellor’s strategic call for partnerships and the establishment of working relations via memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with Brazilian institutions.

The delegation, spearheaded by Professor Bhekie Mamba, Executive Dean of Unisa’s College of Science, Engineering, and Technology, recently visited Brazil to explore potential collaborative efforts. The visit primarily targeted USP’s São Carlos campus, engaging with the Institute of Physics, the Institute of Chemistry, and USP’s Agency for National and International Academic Cooperation in São Paulo.

During the visit, Professor Mamba provided an overview of Unisa’s offerings, emphasizing the university’s various research focus areas. He underscored the value of pre-established relationships between BRICS member countries when applying for research grants, highlighting that these existing partnerships could significantly enhance the chances of securing funding. “When a research proposal is grounded in an already-established relationship and demonstrates active collaboration, it stands a better chance of succeeding,” Mamba remarked.

A key focus of the discussions was the formulation of joint master’s and doctoral degree programmes, which Mamba described as vital for producing world-class students through collaborative efforts. Presentations from researchers at both Unisa and USP highlighted common areas of interest, paving the way for joint research projects to commence before the formalization of an MoU.

The delegation’s visit included comprehensive campus tours and laboratory visits at USP’s São Carlos campus. These tours provided a firsthand look at the state-of-the-art facilities available at USP, many of which parallel those at the Unisa Science Campus. Both institutions are keen to leverage these resources collectively to benefit other, less privileged areas.

Professor Dr. Sergio Oliva, Deputy Provost for International Cooperation at USP, emphasized the importance of such partnerships, noting that Brazil’s geographical isolation often limits their students’ global exposure. He stated, “Partnerships with countries like South Africa are crucial as they provide our students with the opportunity to engage with the wider world.”

Oliva also highlighted the availability of mobility grants at USP, which facilitate the exchange of undergraduate and postgraduate students with institutions across continents, including Africa. Successful student mobility, according to Oliva, hinges on several factors, including the scope of the project, the commitment of academics, the identification of suitable students, and the availability of resources to support these exchanges.