Future-Proofing Campuses: DUT Kicks Off Comprehensive Infrastructure Assessment Project in collaboration with PURCO SA

The Durban University of Technology (DUT), in collaboration with PURCO SA, has officially initiated an exciting project aimed at transforming the management of its campus infrastructure. This initiative marks a significant step toward ensuring operational excellence, safety, and long-term sustainability across its campuses.
DUT has released a tender to appoint a professional consulting engineering firm to conduct a comprehensive conditional assessment of its infrastructure. This assessment will cover everything from buildings and systems to sports fields, pavements, and other key campus assets. This thorough evaluation will form the basis for a more strategic approach to campus maintenance, enhancing both safety and cost-efficiency.

Why This Project Is Important
With many higher education institutions facing the challenges of ageing infrastructure, unexpected maintenance costs, and growing safety concerns, DUT’s proactive move aims to address these issues head-on. By undertaking this comprehensive assessment, DUT, with support from PURCO SA, is taking a vital step toward understanding the true condition of its campus assets, enabling more effective planning and management.
The ultimate goal of this project is to shift from reactive maintenance to a more consolidated, long-term strategy. This will help reduce downtime, improve regulatory compliance, enhance the overall campus environment, and mitigate operational risks.

What This Means for the Future
This initiative highlights a broader trend within the higher education sector, where institutions are increasingly focusing on structured asset management. A well-executed infrastructure assessment allows universities to better plan for the future, improve safety, and ensure that campus facilities continue to meet the needs of both staff and students.
DUT’s leadership in launching this project, with the backing of PURCO SA, sets an important example for other universities, demonstrating the value of proactive infrastructure management in an ever-evolving environment. This project is just the beginning of DUT’s journey toward a smarter, more sustainable campus that can stand the test of time.