The agreement follows a two-day engagement held from 26 – 27 February 2026 at the University’s Mbombela Campus, during which UMP hosted representatives from the two Russian-based companies.
Discussions focused on establishing a collaborative framework in areas of shared interest, including artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain research, staff and student development programmes, entrepreneurship, innovation, product development, and global engagement.
The MoU was signed by the UMP delegation led by Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, Evolut Consulting Chairman Dr Kennedy Dakile, and DigiU Chief Executive Officer Mr Alexey Ognev.
Evolut Consulting operates in the advisory sector, providing services across industries such as energy, telecommunications and financial services. DigiU is an AI-focused enterprise committed to advancing utility sectors – including energy, water, gas and telecommunications – through the deployment of intelligent autonomous systems that utilise artificial intelligence, machine learning and automation technologies to enhance operational efficiency.
UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Meyiwa, noted that collaboration is based on the co-development of solutions.
Speaking during the engagement, Professor Meyiwa reaffirmed UMP’s commitment to purposeful and context-driven partnerships, mentioning the University's approach of collaborating with partners based on the principle of co-development of solutions.
“As UMP, we have expertise in some areas, including ICT and Entrepreneurship Development. Our team will work together with our Russian partners to develop technology solutions which will be relevant to our context.”
Professor Meyiwa also emphasised that while technology has global reach, its application must respond to local realities.
“Our context is different; it is important that we work jointly with our partners to develop solutions that speak directly to our developmental needs and contribute to sustainable impact,” she added.
The agreement reinforces UMP’s vision of being an African university that creates opportunities for sustainable development through innovation.
Through this collaboration, the parties have committed to strengthening research capacity, fostering entrepreneurship, and expanding international networks that will benefit students, academics and broader communities.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by JB Creative Cinema. Copyright © UMP.