Durban University of Technology Clarifies Misinformation on DUT355 Project

DUT Sets the Record Straight on DUT355 Project

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has issued a firm response to misleading reports surrounding its DUT355 infrastructure project on the Steve Biko and Indumiso campuses. The university says false claims circulated by a Johannesburg media outlet have caused unnecessary confusion and concern among stakeholders.

According to DUT, the project’s arbitration process with the Principal Contractor has limited the details the university can share publicly. Still, DUT felt it necessary to counter the misinformation, emphasizing that all procurement processes for DUT355 met governance requirements.

Meeting With Minister Highlights Transparency

On 22 August 2025, DUT’s Council and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thandwa Mthembu, met with Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, in Pretoria. The meeting allowed DUT to present evidence disproving allegations, such as claims that an “unqualified” company was appointed for the R400 million project or that the contractor was terminated amid fraud suspicions.

The university also clarified that a former senior procurement staff member’s resignation in June 2025 was due to medical reasons, not dissatisfaction with DUT355.

BorCon’s Role Explained

DUT stressed that BorCon acts only as a Project Manager, overseeing the use of subcontractors appointed by the Principal Contractor. The company has not been granted full control of the construction project and has not been terminated, as some reports suggested.

Commitment to Governance and Reputation

DUT reassured the public, partners, and stakeholders that it operates with integrity, professionalism, and accountability. Guided by its ENVISION2030 strategy, the university remains committed to transparent governance and protecting its reputation as a trusted public institution.

{Source: IOL}

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