In what could become a defining moment for international collaboration at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST), the quiet agency of one alumnus has set in motion promising discussions with China’s Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU).
Behind the scenes, NUST alumnus Mr Ezra Makaza of Miners Deport played a pivotal role in connecting the two institutions, facilitating an exploratory engagement that could culminate in a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
NUST is now poised to explore collaborative opportunities with XJTLU following a meeting facilitated by Mr Makaza, a proud NUST alumnus (Publishing and Design, Class of 2015).
His efforts underscore the often-unseen influence alumni can wield in advancing institutional growth and global partnerships.
Mr Makaza, who works closely with Dean of the School of Science at XJTLU, Professor John Moraros, helped establish the initial contact, paving the way for potential partnerships in education and research.
Through his company, which specialises in mining and industrial chemicals, Mr Makaza is also driving initiatives that could strengthen innovation and industry engagement at NUST.
During a courtesy visit recently, NUST Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Academic Affairs (RAA), Professor Yogeshkumar Naik, met the visiting delegation and affirmed the university’s forward-looking trajectory.
In his remarks, Prof. Naik encouraged Faculti to “think outside the box” when shaping such a collaboration, emphasising that the partnership should move beyond ceremonial agreements to deliver meaningful, research-driven outcomes.
“Partnerships must be intentional, innovative, and impactful. Rather than limiting cooperation to paper-based agreements, NUST seeks dynamic engagement through joint research initiatives, academic exchanges, and collaborative knowledge production that advances both institutions,” said Prof Naik.
In-turn, Prof. Moraros indicated a desire to explore potential MoUs, particularly in Medical Imaging (Radiography), Sports Science, and some initiatives within the Faculty of Medicine.
“We would be delighted to work with this progressive university, it holds a lot of potential,” said Prof Moraros.
XJTLU, a research-led international university that brings together scholars from around the world to pursue high-quality academic research and scientific breakthroughs, emerged as a natural partner for NUST’s expanding research ambitions.
Prof. Moraros, who holds a PhD in Molecular Biology and has a distinguished research career, described his visit as purely exploratory, an opportunity to identify practical and mutually beneficial areas of cooperation.
Discussions focused on potential collaboration in Medical Imaging, the Faculty of Medicine, and Sports Science.
While formal agreements are yet to be signed, the groundwork laid during this engagement highlights the power of alumni networks in shaping institutional futures.
Mr Makaza’s behind-the-scenes facilitation illustrates how graduates remain vital stakeholders in the evolution of their alma mater.
If successful, the partnership could open pathways for joint research, faculty mobility, and global academic exchange, further strengthening NUST’s position within the international research ecosystem.