At The DaVinci Institute, we believe that learning is not confined to the walls of academia. It lives and breathes in boardrooms, on factory floors, along supply chains, and in the lived experiences of professionals navigating real-world complexity. In that spirit, we are proud to announce a bold and strategic partnership with the Institute of Customs and Freight Forwarding (ICFF), an organisation as committed to professionalisation and innovation as we are.
Aligning Education with Industry: A Shared Vision
This collaboration brings forth a shared vision of education that is both relevant and responsive. Dr Sam February, Executive: Business Development at The DaVinci Institute, explained that the partnership opens numerous strategic opportunities:
“Together, we aim to align academic programmes with industry needs by integrating customs and freight content into Da Vinci’s offerings – content that ICFF recognises as key pathways to professional growth. Through co-developed short courses and micro-credentials that balance theory and practice, we will empower learners at every stage of their careers. We are also exploring joint research initiatives on critical topics such as digitalisation, sustainability, and regulatory compliance – backed by real-world case studies from ICFF members.”
Dr February added that the partnership will enable events like workshops and conferences that bring together students, faculty, and professionals for meaningful knowledge exchange:
“We’re also looking at structured opportunities for internships, mentorships, and executive training to strengthen engagement with the industry. Our collaboration will address digital transformation in freight, including blockchain and AI applications—and champion ESG awareness across supply chains. At its core, this partnership bridges academia and industry, fuelling innovation and growth across the customs and freight forwarding sectors.”
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two institutions marks the beginning of this journey – one grounded in co-creation, mutual respect, and a commitment to unlocking the full potential of industry professionals.
Addressing Industry Gaps and Setting New Standards
Ingrid Du Buisson, Chief Executive Officer of ICFF and Master of Science Degree, a Master of Science in the Management of Technology and Innovation (MSc) alumna of The DaVinci Institute, highlighted the longstanding challenges that have hindered the sector:
“Learning and development in the logistics and freight forwarding industry have historically been fragmented and misaligned. Over time, industry standards have drifted from business realities, severely impacting the development of competent professionals. This is further compounded by a bureaucratic skills development landscape that has failed to adequately support a small yet vital sector – one that facilitates 90% of South Africa’s international trade. Sadly, a very small percentage of the workforce holds formal qualifications.”
But the partnership with The DaVinci Institute marks a turning point. As Du Buisson explained:
“This collaboration presents an opportunity to reshape learning in our sector. By co-developing programmes and qualifications aligned to real-world business realities, we are redefining the standards for competency and proficiency. Our goal is to build an ecosystem that supports professionals and strengthens their role in facilitating international supply chains.”
She also underscored the importance of Da Vinci’s learning model:
“DaVinci’s Mode 2 methodology is especially valuable as it supports working professionals in practical, accessible ways. The programmes are aligned to the ICFF competency framework and enjoy strong industry recognition. This partnership fits squarely within our vision of professionalisation – an imperative increasingly driven by global legislation and compliance requirements. Licensing of customs operators and professional designations are no longer optional, and this partnership enables us to respond proactively by creating learning and development strategies that meet these demands,” Ingrid added.
What This Means in Practice
This partnership will bring to life a range of impactful initiatives, including:
- Workshops, seminars, and conferences that explore emerging challenges in customs, logistics, and freight forwarding.
- Collaborative research and publications that merge academic insight with industry relevance.
- Competency-based certifications that reflect the full scope of skills needed in a fast-evolving trade environment.
- Professional development pathways for ICFF members and Da Vinci students to expand their influence and impact.
ICFF brings to the table a robust community of logistics and freight experts, deep sector knowledge, and a commitment to maintaining international standards. The Da Vinci Institute complements this with academic rigour, research capacity, and a human-centred approach to innovation.
A Shared Vision for Professional Growth
At the heart of this partnership is the belief that people drive the future of every industry. Knowledge is most powerful when co-created, and innovation takes root when diverse perspectives come together with shared intent.
We are not simply preparing individuals for existing roles – we are cultivating systems thinkers, adaptable leaders, and change-makers who can shape the industries of tomorrow. Together, The DaVinci Institute and ICFF are nurturing an environment where learning is ongoing, credentials are meaningful, and real-world challenges become springboards for growth.
Why This Matters
This partnership signals a new way forward – one where academic institution doesn’t operate in isolation from industry but walks alongside it. Where professional bodies don’t merely train but actively co-create the future of their sectors. Where learning is a lifelong journey marked by innovation, collaboration, and reinvention.
By aligning on ethical standards, intellectual property, transparent reporting, and ongoing communication, The DaVinci Institute and ICFF have built a foundation for a lasting and transformative partnership.
The DaVinci Institute and ICFF. Reimagining professional development together.
For those ready to think differently. Lead courageously. Learn continuously. Welcome to a new era of collaborative partnership.
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