The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Dr Blade Nzimande.

This university will be closely linked to driving high impact and innovative technological innovation with current and future industries, sectors and firms to drive the frontiers of a future economy. The new university will be located in the city of Ekurhuleni, a major economic hub and seat of growing Aerotropolis providing vital services to the economy of the entire continent.

“We believe that this location, together with fresh new challenges arising from the revolution in science and technology in the third decade of the 21st century, offers an opportunity for a new initiative to provide cutting-edge science and technology innovations across crucial areas such as Data Science, Machine- Learning, Artificial Intelligence, Block Chain, Robotics, Hydrogen-powered technologies including smart transportation and logistics systems”, said Minister Nzimande.

In leading this project, Minister Nzimande will work with relevant government and industry partners, the City of Ekurhuleni and the Gauteng Provincial Government, whilst drawing on South Africa’s extensive international network in the BRICS countries, Japan, Europe and elsewhere for innovative partnerships.