CO-CREATING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN AFRICA 

Africa BEDI – Built Environment Digital Innovation – is a pioneering initiative of the University of Pretoria, established to drive digital transformation across Africa’s built environment. Rooted in the Department of Facilities Management and the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (EBIT), this serves as a bridge between academic excellence and operational innovation.

Our vision is to co-create smarter, greener, and more responsive urban and campus environments through cutting-edge technologies such as digital twins, building information modeling (BIM), and data-driven systems. Africa BEDI brings together researchers, students, industry leaders, and policymakers to reimagine the future of African cities and infrastructure.

Learn more: Africa BEDI

MISSION

Unique dual function

Operational Innovation: Enhancing campus infrastructure, efficiency, and financial sustainability through digital twin technologies and smart facilities management.

Academic Integration: Advancing interdisciplinary teaching, research, and community engagement through the Africa BEDI Laboratory, a platform for transdisciplinary learning and postgraduate training.

VISION

Co-creating digital transformation in Africa

UP will remain at the forefront of shaping the future of education and campus life, providing a model for institutions worldwide seeking to create smarter, greener, and more responsive campus environments.

STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

• Transform the University of Pretoria’s built environment through data maturity and digital twin implementation.
• Enable industry partnerships and third-stream income generation via accredited training, research grants, and executive education.
• Position UP as a continental leader in built environment digital innovation through initiatives like the Hatfield Digital Twin and BIMHarambee.
• Empower African communities and professionals by developing capacity and promoting inclusive, sustainable urban development.

KEY OBJECTIVES

Co-creating digital transformation in Africa

• Alignment with the University of Pretoria Digital Transformation Strategy 2023-2026.
• Partner with the academic cohort to drive progress.
• Generate third stream income.
• Digital transformation of the University of Pretoria’s facilities by maturing the information and systems and optimising the operations to ensure the financial sustainability of the institution.
• Position the University of Pretoria as leaders in the built environment digital innovation landscape in Africa.