The University of South Africa (UNISA) and Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) formalized the strategic partnership through signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) focusing on interdisciplinary collaboration in air traffic management.
Source: University of South Africa
The initiative, which began development in early 2024, aims to bridge the gap between academia and the aviation industry with an emphasis on research, skill development and knowledge exchange.
This project is consistent with UNISA's catalytic niche domain in aviation and aviation research. This is an institutional priorities promoted by the Deputy Director of Research, Graduate Research, Innovation and Commercialization under the leadership of Professor Tonjiwe Meyiwa. This initiative is part of UNISA's broader strategy to expand enthusiastic scholarships in key sectors.
Enables operational efficiency and innovation
ATNS, represented by acting CEO Matome Moholola, highlighted the importance of partnerships in enabling operational improvements, particularly in areas such as record and knowledge management.
The agreement also supports ATNS's planning to provide ATNS employees and trainees with access to UNISA's academic resources and establish a dedicated aviation museum to showcase their contributions to air traffic safety and aviation history.
The collaboration also aims to enhance UNISA's education and research programs by integrating real-world aviation challenges into the academic curriculum.
Professor Zethu Nkosi, executive dean of UNISA's University of Human Sciences, emphasized the value of practical exposure for staff and students when developing sector-related expertise, particularly in knowledge management and museum development.
The project is jointly led by Dr. Mandisa Msomi from UNISA's Faculty of Information Sciences and Dr. Refiloe Mabaso, Head of Information and Knowledge Management at ATNS.
Both promote needs assessments and benchmarks to ensure that the initiative is consistent with institutional goals. The team is also involved in ongoing knowledge exchange sessions with air stakeholders, with support from senior leaders across both organizations.
ATNS Board Chair Advocate Zola Majavu said the collaboration represents a revitalization of academic and industry fame through intellectual and strategic alignment. He highlighted the need for long-term planning, innovation and determination, and highlighted the potential for partnerships to create a pipeline of talent and technology solutions that serve the wider aviation ecosystem.
Promoting national influence through innovation
Professor Puleng Lenkabula, UNISA's Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said the collaboration reflects the university's commitment to contributing to national infrastructure and the world economy through scholarships and innovation. She emphasized the importance of investing in South Africa's intellectual capabilities rather than outsource solutions, and reiterated UNISA's intention to play a leading role in the transformation and advancement of the aviation sector.
The collaboration is expected to unlock new opportunities for applied research, innovation and curriculum development, and to deepen engagement between South Africa's higher education and aviation sector.
