Recent China - South Africa Infrastructure Initiatives Prof Wynand JvdM Steyn HOD – Civil Engineering University of Pretoria 7 June 2017
Introduction Long history of China – South Africa infrastructure collaboration Since late 1990s Regular interactions discussions visits Belt and Road initiative Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st-century Maritime Silk Road
Roads / pavements focus Investments in APT technology HVS and MLS Investments in technology development
Recent developments MOU between UP and Chang’an University Focusing on Collaborative teaching Collaborative research Academic interactions Student interaction
Current initiatives Prof Alex Visser Visiting professor - Chang’an University Expert consultant rubber asphalt and related topics Dr Lin Chen Post Doc at University of Pretoria – Data Science Prof Fred Hugo / Prof Wynand Steyn Expert consultants - Inner Mongolia Roads World Transportation Conference Specific China – South Africa session SATC Student essay participants Conference papers Prof Xie visit and discussions
Planned initiatives Academic interactions Lectures Student exchange Initially post graduate Followed by undergraduate Financially supported Research collaboration Collaborative projects with intention of knowledge expansion
Disruptive technologies - Sharebike
Establishment of International (Belt & Road) Transport Alliance (ITA) Platform for developing & enhancing all-round, multi-level & wide-ranging cooperation in transport field among countries along Belt and Road Achieving integrated, fast & sustainable development of transport systems connecting these countries People of these countries can share safe, convenient, comfortable & green transport systems Interconnectivity of transport infrastructure of high priority Promoting construction & maintenance of international backbone corridors, forming infrastructure network connecting Asia, Europe, & Africa at various levels
Conclusions Active collaborations over may years New initiatives & opportunities Good scientific & engineering basis & support