The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has officially launched its Advanced Manufacturing Facility (AMF) and new offices for the Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI), a move set to strengthen South Africa’s aerospace engineering capabilities. The opening will be officiated by Dr Mlungisi Cele, Director-General of Science, Technology and Innovation.
ASRI, which began in 2009 as the Aerospace Systems Research Group (ASReG) and became a full institute within UKZN’s School of Engineering in 2022, aims to emerge as a global centre of excellence in aerospace propulsion research. Its mission is to support South Africa’s space engineering sector while developing skilled professionals in aerospace propulsion engineering.
The newly commissioned Advanced Manufacturing Facility enables ASRI engineers to produce cutting-edge aerospace components locally, eliminating the need for outsourced manufacturing and marking a major milestone in domesticizing aerospace production.
The institute’s new offices include a boardroom with teleconferencing, a meeting room for smaller gatherings, and an advanced computing facility for simulations, designed to enhance productivity and foster collaboration among staff and students.
Funded by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, the upgraded facilities are expected to attract further industry partnerships and research funding, positioning UKZN as a key player in Africa’s aerospace research and innovation landscape.
