The North-West University (NWU) played a prominent role in the inaugural Indigenous Knowledge-Based Technology Innovation Investment Summit, hosted by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) in partnership with the Innovation Hub, the NWU, the University of Limpopo, the University of Venda and the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF).

Held from 2 to 4 June 2026 at the Birchwood Hotel and OR Tambo Conference Centre in Gauteng, the summit brought together researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers and industry leaders to explore how indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) can drive technology innovation, economic development and investment opportunities in South Africa.

The event marked a significant step towards unlocking the commercial potential of indigenous knowledge, while fostering innovation that is both culturally relevant and socially inclusive.

A key highlight of the three-day summit was the active participation of students from the NWU, the University of Limpopo and the University of Venda. Students showcased innovative research projects and technology prototypes alongside small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), creating valuable opportunities for engagement with investors, industry experts and decision-makers.

The summit provided a unique platform for emerging innovators to demonstrate how indigenous knowledge can be transformed into practical solutions that address societal challenges while creating economic opportunities.

The NWU delegation was further strengthened by the presence of Prof. Thebe Medupi, deputy dean for teaching and learning in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, and Dr Joe Molete, deputy vice-chancellor for student life, transformation, people and culture, with the assigned function of the Mahikeng Campus. Their participation reflected the commitment of the university to advancing indigenous knowledge systems, supporting student innovation and strengthening partnerships that promote research excellence, entrepreneurship and societal impact.

The Centre of Excellence in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (CEIKS) at the NWU was particularly well represented during the student pitch competition, where young researchers demonstrated the innovation potential emerging from indigenous knowledge research.

NWU alumni Tsholofelo Mokoena and Lindokuhle Mudzipuri achieved outstanding success, securing first and third place respectively in the highly competitive student pitch category.

Their achievements underscored the quality of research and innovation being produced within the indigenous knowledge systems programmes at the university and highlighted the growing role of young researchers in advancing indigenous knowledge-based technologies.

The success of the NWU participants reflects the commitment of the university to promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and knowledge generation that respond to local and global challenges while recognising the value of indigenous knowledge systems.

By bringing together academia, industry, government and investors, the summit demonstrated the growing recognition of indigenous knowledge as a valuable resource for technological advancement and sustainable development.

The event also reinforced the importance of creating pathways for commercialisation and investment in indigenous knowledge-based innovations, ensuring that traditional knowledge can contribute meaningfully to economic growth and community development.

As South Africa continues to strengthen its innovation ecosystem, initiatives such as the Indigenous Knowledge-Based Technology Innovation Investment Summit are expected to play a critical role in advancing inclusive innovation and supporting the commercialisation of locally developed technologies.

For the NWU, the success of its students and alumni at the summit highlights the contribution of the university to developing future innovators and positioning indigenous knowledge systems as a catalyst for research excellence, entrepreneurship and societal impact.

The summit concluded with a shared commitment among stakeholders to continue supporting indigenous knowledge-based innovation and to build stronger partnerships that will help position South Africa as a global leader in inclusive, culturally rooted innovation.