Publication of papers
Welcome to our website dedicated to publishing research papers, conferences and seminars organized by our esteemed researchers. In the first phase of our effort, we examine the complex dynamics of business models across reforms, with a particular focus on the South African construction industry and the wider sub-Saharan African region. Despite government investment, sustainability remains a challenge. Our insights gained from leading industries such as the UK construction industry offer transformational power to drive sustainable development at various levels.
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Moving on to the second level, we explore the implementation of continuous improvement in higher education. These organizations play a vital role in driving social change towards a sustainable future. But divided opinion hinders progress, especially in Southern universities. Our project aims to address this gap by emphasizing effective communication strategies to advance sustainable development efforts. Through a strong network of networks, we want to engage stakeholders on a broad scale, and promote a holistic approach to sustainability in South African university in various fields. Join us in building a brighter, more sustainable future.
Strand 1: Business models in transitions
The construction industry in South Africa and the broader sub-Saharan Africa region continues to face significant challenges in achieving sustainability performance. Despite substantial government investments aimed at bridging infrastructure deficits, the industry's progress remains sluggish compared to the developed world. The post-recession and post-COVID "build back better" movement has underscored the urgent need for transformative practices and business models to enhance sustainability within the construction sector. By drawing insights from more advanced sectors, such as the UK construction industry, South Africa can foster substantial improvements at the firm, project, and sectoral levels.
Green business models transformation: Evidence from the UK construction sector, Journal of Built Environment Project and Asset Management
The construction industry's sustainability in South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa lags significantly, necessitating improved practices to bridge critical infrastructure deficits. Inspired by the UK, South Africa seeks to transform its business models for better sustainability. However, a lack of context-specific guidelines hinders this transition. To address this, a proposed grant will fund workshops engaging key stakeholders to develop a pathway for sustainable business model transformations, leveraging existing research and knowledge.
In-draft: Adapting sustainable business model patterns to Architecture, Engineering, and Contractors (AEC) disciplines. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management (Target Journal)
The adaptation of sustainable business models in architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) is essential to achieve the long-term environmental and economic performance of the sector This project with dimensions under review explores new strategies and programs designed for the unique challenges and opportunities of the AEC sector. By combining circular economics and sustainable development principles, the study aims to provide practical strategies and strategies that can be adopted by AEC practitioners to enhance development performance. The manuscript, which is targeted for publication in the journal Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, seeks to bridge the gap between design models and practical applications, ensuring that sustainable practices are integrated into AEC projects and functionality of the.
Strand 2: Sustainable development implementation
Higher education institutions are crucial to drive social change towards a sustainable future by equipping individuals with the necessary skills and competencies. Despite a range of sustainable development initiatives, universities tend to implement these in a fragmented and silo-based manner rather than holistic, systemic approaches This issue is particularly evident globally Southern universities, including South Africa. The study emphasizes the critical role of effective communication in the effective implementation of sustainable development. However, there is no research on communication strategies used to enhance these efforts. This project aims to provide a robust communication platform for South African universities that engages stakeholders through various forums, thereby providing a comprehensive approach to sustainability regularly in high school.
Modelling Organisational Factors Influencing Sustainable Development Implementation Performance in Higher Education Institutions: An Interpretative Structural Modelling (ISM) Approach.
Higher education institutions (HEIs) worldwide exhibit different levels of performance in implementing sustainable development (SD) due to institutional factors. This study examines the relationship between these factors and their impact on SD management. As a case study using a South African University of Technology, the findings highlight the critical role of communication in effective SD implementation.
Understanding the Moderating Effect of Governance Functions on the Impact of Communication on Sustainability Implementation Performance in Higher Education Institutions
The implementation of sustainable development (SD) programs in HEIs is often hindered by institutional factors, particularly communication This study addresses these issues through a comparative study of HEIs in South Africa and the UK role. Using Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM), it shows that the Communication for Success (CfS) archetype is highly effective for SD implementation. Furthermore, it reveals that governance roles, such as dedicated SD departments, significantly improve the CfS archetype.
 Beyond the usual: Introducing Green Business Tool (GBT)Explore our involvement with the LCB program in celebrating upcycling and sustainable innovation. Explore the revolutionary concept of upcycling, where waste is recycled into valuable products. Organized by Dr Amal Abuzenab, she gave a compelling explanation of green business practices in UK manufacturing and engaged with attendees to encourage dialogue and cooperation. |  Sustainability-ROXThe Sustainability business model has been presented by Dr. Amal Abuzine to Sustainability ROX. The organization was launched in March 2024 and has been holding several sectoral themed major events since, bringing together a diverse mix of business types and scales for one common goal. Identifying UK progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and universally ESGs to achieve green growth. |  GALA: Grow – Adapt – Learn – AchieveDr. Amal Abuzeinab outlines her ongoing journey in academia and green business models. It includes her educational and professional milestones, emphasizing sustainability, character skills, and the integration of Sustainable Development Goals in business practices. |
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