The eThekwini-University  Research Symposium is a joint initiative between MILE and its partnering universities. The rationale for arranging a research conference was conceptualized by the eThekwini-University Research Committee. The research committee is made up of academics from each institutions research offices and representatives from MILE. The relevance of the event stems from the need to share, disseminate and identify areas in local government, in which the research outputs could be applied. Academics, students and city practitioners will be given the opportunity to participate at the learning event. With support from the Research Committee, the MILE Working Group and senior management, the Research Symposium is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 19 September 2012.