By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
The Mpumalanga Provincial Government and UMP(University of Mpumalanga) have announced a major partnership aimed at revolutionising the economy and developing skills in the province.
The partnership was recently formalised during a meeting between UMP’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Thenjiwe Meyiwa, and Council Chairperson, Sabelo Mahlalela, and Mpumalanga Premier, Mandla Ndlovu, in Mbombela.
The meeting was also attended by Education MEC, Lindi Masina, MEC Khethiwe Moeketsi of DARDLEA(Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land Environmental Affairs), Education HOD(Bead of Department), Lucy Moyane, DARDLEA HOD, Cain Chunda, and the Mpumalanga DG(Director-General), Maggie Skosana , amongst other dignitaries.
A hybrid rice project and (AI)Artificial Intelligence mastery training programme, among others, were presented by UMP during the meeting.
According to Mpumalanga Provincial Government spokesperson, George Mthethwa, the rice project is reportedly anchored in the objectives of promoting sustainable agriculture, innovation and applied research, while the AI programme seeks to strengthen education through teacher training, curriculum support, research and innovation.
Mthethwa said the Premier applauded UMP for the plan, and directed the Provincial Government to develop a MOU(Memorandum of Understanding) to be signed with the University.
“ Prof. Meyiwa says 200 000 agricultural specialists will be trained to create a new generation of experts that are skilled in modern techniques. 388 800 employment opportunities will be created, thus making the project a job massification programme in the province. She says the value of the rice project will be R40.32 billion annually, thus making it a massive investment in Mpumalanga’s economy,”
The Vice Chancellor reportedly stated that the AI training programme is aligned with the country’s technological advancement of training 10 million citizens in AI applicable skills.
“ She says the AI training programme is critical for the realization of an AI literate citizens, armed with the skills for economic transformation,” said Mthethwa.
Caption:(front row-left) UMP Council Chairperson, Savela Mahlalela, Premier Mandla Ndlovu, DG Maggie Skosana, UMP Vice Chancellor, Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa
