This paper deals, with the need for transformation of the design profession and industry as a consequence of a governmental initiative. The demographics, with respect to the design industry do not reflect the wider South African society. These challenges also face the Universities of Technology in respect of student demographics and profile.

Adaptability of staff in respect of change and innovative recruitment as well as marketing drives ensuring that access to design education is not narrowed as a result of mergers. The deployment of innovative teaching and learning strategies as a result of multi-campus management of academic programmes, underpinned by a quest to maintain quality, are challenges that cannot be underestimated. The role of the academic staff in effecting change is therefore crucial to transformation in a multi-cultural sensitive environment.

Please note: This paper was not submitted to a Peer Review process after the conference.