Farook Kadodia (front, left) and Normah Zondo signed the MoU between UKZN and Durban City FC. Pictured with them (back row from L to R) are Club CEO, Younus Kadodia: UKZN Senior Sports Officer, Zweli Sapula and UKZN Dean of Students Percy Sepeng
Image: Supplied
It’s time to play ball as the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and Durban City Football Club (FC) have formalised a strategic partnership. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at a ceremony held at UKZN’s Westville campus recently.
This agreement establishes a collaborative framework aimed at strengthening ties between the two institutions in key areas such as sports development, education, and research. It paves the way for knowledge sharing in football, research collaboration and the exchange of expertise while also fostering opportunities for joint initiatives that will benefit both UKZN students and Durban City FC, said Ms Normah Zondo, UKZN Executive Director of the Corporate Relations Division (CRD).
Ms Zondo said the partnership was built on shared values of excellence, resilience, and integrity, reflecting both institutions’ commitment to making a lasting societal impact.
“Just as UKZN stands as the Premier University of African Scholarship, Durban City FC has proven itself as an organisation dedicated to continuous growth, accountability, and a winning mentality,” said Ms Zondo.
She added that the partnership would provide UKZN students with hands-on experience in areas such as sports science, data analytics, athlete performance management and sports marketing and administration. It will prepare them for careers in the rapidly evolving sports industry, she said.
Durban City FC Chairman, Mr Farook Kadodia, expressed the Club’s honour in partnering with UKZN. Speaking alongside the Club’s management, coaching, and marketing teams, he described the collaboration as a powerful convergence of sport and education.
“Together, we will unlock new possibilities for students, staff, and players through research, player development and community engagement. Our goal is to bridge the gap between academia and the dynamic world of professional football,” Mr Kadodia said.
He added that for the Club’s players and staff, this means access to cutting-edge research, world-class facilities and educational programmes that will elevate performance on and off the pitch.
“This is more than just a partnership; it is a pledge to progress, innovate, and have a community impact to nurture the next generation of coaches, players and leaders. This was we create pathways to success that extend far beyond the game,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by members of the UKZN Executive Management, the Students Services’ Sports Department and the CRD team. During the vote of thanks, UKZN Dean of Students, Prof Percy Sepeng, echoed the sentiments shared by Ms Zondo and Mr Kadodia.
“The university is excited about the opportunity to contribute jointly to community development. We want to ensure that this partnership leaves a footprint beyond the walls of our respective institutions,” Prof Sepeng said. “I wish to acknowledge Chairman Kadodia and the entire Durban City FC family. Your belief in UKZN and your willingness to walk this path with us is deeply appreciated.”
Prof Sepeng noted that the MoU aligns with the university’s strategic plan to enhance the student experience. He said a truly great university develops the whole student - mind, body and character. Sport plays a vital role in that journey.
To celebrate the new partnership, the MoU was unveiled publicly during Durban City FC’s match against Upington City FC at Chatsworth Stadium. Durban City FC won the game, putting them in a strong position to advance to the next level of competition.