By Sihle Mavuso
A 129-page forensic report compiled by SKX Forensics on behalf of the Durban University of Technology (DUT) council recommends action against DUT officials and the companies responsible for the delay of three multimillion-rand projects.
The projects stalled due to poor planning and other factors, forcing the institution to spend R183-million more to complete them.
The projects are an Engineering Unit, lecture rooms at the Indumiso Campus in Pietermaritzburg, and a student and multi-purpose centre at the Steve Biko Campus in Durban.
The projects, which started a few years ago but still need to be completed, will cost the institution millions of rands.
The report noted that one of the main contractors received payments that contradicted their appointment conditions. At the same time, another contractor needed to improve its compliance with the Joint Building Contracts Committee (JBCC) contract protocols and guidelines.
It was also found that DUT’s project management office and steering committee failed in foundational planning, leading to cost increases and delays.
The consulting engineers did not evaluate and rule on modification entitlements and contractual claims.
Some of the report’s findings include the lack of adherence to JBCC contract protocols, inefficient management leading to potential cost overruns, and delayed schedules.
The report said the companies must be instructed to review and enhance their operational efficiency and adherence to contractual obligations and be held accountable to DUT officials and the steering committee.
“[The] Bid Evaluation Committee [should be] held responsible for not operating within established terms, leading to oversights in project oversight and procedural integrity,” the report said.
The report recommends that DUT be “advised to ensure strict adherence to its terms of reference to maintain procedural and operational integrity”.
In response to a request for comment, DUT said: “The matter you are referring to is currently sub judice. Therefore, the University is unable to comment at this time.”
Pictured above: The unfinished Durban University of Technology.
Source: Supplied
