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NWU participates in microcredentials development in Southern Africa

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 12:01:03 +0000

NWU participates in microcredentials development in Southern Africa

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 03/27/2025 - 14:01

Change is fast and constant in the new world of work, and degrees no longer safeguard job security or ensure skills relevance. Continued learning, upskilling and reskilling after graduation are essential. Microcredentials could be the answer.

Microcredentials are recognised and certified units of learning outcomes which encompass formal education and validated non-formal learning with pathways to larger qualifications. They are poised to play a pivotal role in facilitating widened access to learning, higher education and completing studies towards formal qualifications. Microcredentials also contribute to improved employability outcomes and the development of a more skilled and adaptable workforce for various industries.

In its mission to strategically position itself to offer microcredentials and viable alternatives to students, the NWU has taken a leading role as one of the first South African universities making the process of learning and obtaining a formal degree more flexible and affordable.

This started in earnest in 2023 when the university adopted a framework on microcredentials. This framework makes provision for giving recognition to the various “standalone” building blocks or credits of formal qualifications.

PoMiSA project highlights transformative potential of microcredentials

“We are currently one of seven countries ― including Namibia, Lesotho, Mauritius, Belgium, Estonia and Ireland ― that are at the forefront of developing a policy framework for microcredentials for the Southern African region,” says Prof Alida Herbst, deputy dean for teaching and learning at the Faculty of Health Sciences.

This policy framework development forms part of the “Potentials of microcredentials in Southern Africa” (PoMiSA) project.

Financed by the European Union, the initiative aims to strengthen higher education and workforce development across the region. It is a collaborative effort among leading African and European universities, national and regional councils, and strategic partners to explore and leverage the transformative potential of microcredentials.

The project’s core objective is to develop higher education capacity through a microcredentials policy in Southern African countries.

According to Prof Herbst, the first part of the PoMiSA project is nearing completion. This part comprises the seven countrys’ reports on the state of play in the partner countries. These reports provide insights into how education systems can adapt to changing industry demands. (The reports are available to view and download from the PoMiSA website at https://pomisa.hec.mu/).

The NWU team is responsible for Work Package (deliverable) 2* of these reports. The first deliverable consisted of the different countrys’ reports, which were published in the second week of February this year. The next, scheduled to be released by the middle of March, will entail a synthesis report. This is currently under review.

Further work packages in the project are ongoing and will be concluded with a conference in Mauritius in October 2025.

NWU’s microcredentials journey

Microcredentials can bring the curriculum closer to the world of work. To enable the development of microcredentials that offer this flexibility, the NWU Senate has approved a microcredential framework. Its purpose is to ensure accountability for the evidential links between microcredentials and the credentials of which they are part (i.e. the credits and the programmes or qualifications associated with them).

The intention is to ensure the transparency and integrity of the processes involved in identifying, recommending, approving and monitoring microcredentials.

From the NWU’s point of view, the value proposition of microcredentials is being able to deliver the highest quality of service to registered students, as well as non-registered participants enrolled for a microcredential, by providing accurate, timeous and relevant information

“We are excited about the possibilities opened up by microcredentials, both for our students and our external stakeholders, and have progressed significantly with our plan to launch microcredentials at the NWU,” says Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning.

Workshop assesses the NWU'S readiness

In September 2024, Prof Herman van der Merwe and the PoMiSA team acquired the expertise of international expert Dr Caroline Steel to conduct an NWU Microcredentials Readiness workshop.

This workshop used Dr Steel’s structured, benchmarked framework to assess the university’s institutional readiness and maturity for microcredentials, aligning with global trends. It focused on the questions “Why?”, “Who?”, “How?” and ‘What?” of microcredentials in relation to the NWU

The assessment found that the NWU is at an experimental stage of readiness and maturity, actively exploring microcredentials.

Prof Herman indicated that the findings clearly highlighted opportunities, challenges and strategic recommendations to advance the NWU's readiness and maturity for microcredentials.

The next step in the NWU’s microcredentials journey is to create a "Microcredentials pathways project" that will guide it in creating a collaborative roadmap that aligns microcredentials with workforce needs, digital learning trends and NWU strategy.

Some of the immediate tasks that are part of this include:

· hosting a strategy workshop to refine a future-facing microcredential roadmap;

· developing and piloting research and artificial intelligence (AI)-related microcredentials; and

· developing and piloting industry-aligned microcredentials via a grant programme (investigate the possibility of co-funding from industry).

"By taking strategic action in these areas, the NWU can scale microcredentials sustainably, positioning itself as a national leader in this form of education," says Prof Herman.

* More about Work Package 2

The primary deliverable of Work Package 2 is a synthesis report. This report examines the state of micro-credential conceptualisation, policy development and implementation in Estonia, Belgium (Flanders), Ireland, Lesotho, Mauritius, Namibia and South Africa.

According to Prof Herman, each country produced a report structured around a common template covering four research themes: microcredential conceptualisation, public and private sector providers, implementation and effectiveness, and policy development.

“The report consolidates findings to provide an overview of microcredential practices and policies, although context and data consistency variations present some limitations. The analysis employed a framework analysis methodology (FAM), specifically the 'best fit' framework synthesis, to ensure a comprehensive and adaptable synthesis of findings,” he says.

** More about microcredentials

A microcredential is a “standalone building block” of a formal qualification. At the NWU, a bachelor’s degree consists of at least three years of studying. Each of these years comprises various modules, each bearing credits. A student in South Africa needs 120 credits per year adding up to 360 in total. Most international universities have a similar practice. This is where microcredentials might play an essential role. Smaller microcrenditials can add up to a full medule. Students can, for instance, complete two or three microcredentials and receive a badge for each that will count toward the eventual module.” To learn more visit: https://www.nwu.ac.za/sites/www.nwu.ac.za/files/files/i-media/I-life-20…

Prof Alida Herbst

Prof Linda du Plessis

Prof Herman van der Merwe

Seminar: paving the way towards an international career with IEC

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:09:02 +0000

Seminar: paving the way towards an international career with IEC

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 03/26/2025 - 08:09

The Faculty of Humanities of the NWU recently hosted a seminar aimed at graduates and final-year students who are eager to explore international work and travel opportunities. The Faculty has a strong relationship with the Intercultural Education Corporation (IEC), who sent a delegation to South Africa to share first-hand insight into the Work and Travel in China programme. This programme offers young professionals the chance to work abroad while exploring a new culture.

This presentation provided students with the ideal opportunity to engage with IEC experts, ask questions, and obtain a comprehensive understanding of how they can begin their journey towards an international career.

The IEC is a renowned organisation that promotes global education and cultural exchange by bringing international educators of English into Chinese classrooms. It aims to connect young graduates with professional experiences in China, equipping them with global skills, cultural exposure and assisting with career development opportunities.

Exciting advantages

Prof Herculene Kotzé, deputy dean in the Faculty of Humanities, shared her insight into the programme and assured interested students that the IEC is a reputable company that they can trust. During the session, participants were presented with the numerous advantages of the Work and Travel in China programme. After an application process, successful candidates will receive a work visa and international flight ticket, making the transition to China efficient. They will also be provided with free accommodation and meals, ensuring a comfortable stay throughout the programme.

Healthcare is also taken into consideration, as participants will receive health and accident insurance. In order to help them adapt to their new environment, they will have access to Mandarin language classes, making it easier to communicate with others. Beyond these benefits, the programme will help accelerate their careers by assisting young professionals in refining their leadership, communication, and flexibility skills in a fast-paced, global environment.

Who can apply?

While candidates from a wide range of academic disciplines can apply, preference is given to graduates in the fields of Art, Drama, Music, and Physical Education.

In order to be eligible for this programme, candidates must hold or be in the process of obtaining a bachelor's degree. Those whose degrees are not related to education are advised to complete a 120-hour TEFL certificate to enable them to teach English comfortably. Additionally, applications must have a valid passport from South Africa, the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or Jamaica.

In addition to academic and travel requirement, candidates should not have a criminal record, and must show a willingness to train, learn, and teach. Embracing the Chinese culture and showing adaptability is also essential for a successful experience.

Candidates that are interested may apply on the IEC website, and the employment process is open year-round, with two annual intakes in February and September.

Representatives from the Intercultural Education program (IEC) together with colleagues from the NWU Career Services, from the left are Prof Herculene Kotzé, Ms Linda Liao, Ms Boitumelo Mokoena, Ms Shirley Li, and Ms Nombulelo Malunga.

The presentation provided students with the ideal opportunity to engage.

The NWU has a spring in its North Carolina State University step

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 04:42:03 +0000

The NWU has a spring in its North Carolina State University step

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 03/26/2025 - 06:42

Spring is in the air here in the USA where a large delegation from the North-West University (NWU) is visiting North Carolina State University (NCSU). The trees on their beautiful main campus are coated with colourful emerging blossoms, and although the sights like the majestic Memorial Bell Tower at Henry Square are something to behold, that is not why we are here.

We are here to learn and to build partnerships that will see us excel even more on the international stage.

It was dripping wet on our first day here, Monday, 24 March, but that did not prevent us from soaking up the information provided by our generous hosts. Our visit to the NCSU’s Department of Nuclear Engineering saw us visit the Nuclear Assay and Retrospective Dosimetry Laboratory, where Dr Rob Hayes told us that magic happens. It is hard to dispute that sentiment after the presentation he and Dr Lisa Marshall delivered, but allow me to add to that: Magic happens when people connect, when they share a common purpose and delight in their shared resolve to reach goals that transcend their individual needs. That is magic.

We saw this at the Nuclear Materials Ultrafast Spectroscopy Characterization Laboratory we visited later, as well as at our meeting with Dr Mark Hoversten, the dean of the College of Design, during our discussion with Robert Sandruck, director of Global Programs, and at the College of Natural Resources.

On Tuesday we visited the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Caldwell Hall. This building is named after NCSU’s former chancellor, John Tyler Caldwell, who was renowned as a progressive thinker in his time. I think he would have enjoyed hearing the story about the NWU’s journey and where we are heading. Our day also included a meeting with Dr Garey Fox, dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and concluded with a tour and overview of their Plant Sciences Initiative.

It is wonderfully exciting, and our week is far from over. Fair weather is expected over the next few days, which is perfect for new friendships to blossom as well.

Warm regards

Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka
Principal and Vice-Chancellor

The NWU delegation in discussions with their North Carolina State University counterparts.

Albertina Sisulu Research Chair will continue to shine its light on nursing

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 07:34:48 +0000

Albertina Sisulu Research Chair will continue to shine its light on nursing

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 03/25/2025 - 09:34

In a nod to the North-West University’s (NWU’s) outstanding research abilities, the Albertina Sisulu Research Chair in Nursing Science has been upgraded by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and will continue for another five years under the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI).

The SARChI extension followed a successful evaluation process in which the chair, led by Prof Siedine Knobloch Coetzee, underwent a two-phase peer review. Independent experts assessed the chairholder’s report and supporting documents, after which an evaluation panel, composed of researchers from multiple disciplines, deliberated on the findings. The panel recommended continued funding.

The NRF also upgraded the chair’s status to Tier 1, a designation for researchers with international recognition in their field.

Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, the NWU’s deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, says the chair’s upgrade underscores its contributions to the university’s research output.

“This achievement strengthens the NWU’s standing in health sciences research. It is a testament to the work being done to advance nursing science and train researchers who will shape the future of the field.”

The NRF has emphasised the importance of institutional support in ensuring the chair’s long-term sustainability and the NWU is expected to provide resources to sustain the chair’s impact beyond the current funding cycle.

The SARChI programme, launched in 2006 by the Department of Science and Technology and managed by the NRF, aims to grow South Africa’s research capacity by retaining top scholars and generating new knowledge. The initiative supports public universities, research councils and national research facilities with a focus on scientific advancement and transformation in the knowledge economy.

Prof Siedine Knobloch Coetzee

NWU hosts groundbreaking AI workshops with international experts

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 12:23:26 +0000

NWU hosts groundbreaking AI workshops with international experts

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 03/24/2025 - 14:23

The North-West University (NWU) is once again leading the way in innovative educational practices with the recent artificial intelligence (AI)-focused workshops organised by its Technology Enhanced Learning and Innovative Training and Education in South Africa (TELIT-SA) research entity.

In collaboration with the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), these workshops, held on 19 and 20 March 2025, were aimed at enhancing the integration of AI within higher education.

Under the guidance of Prof Liandi van den Berg from the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences and director of TELIT-SA, this initiative has made significant strides in embedding AI into both teaching and learning environments.

The workshops brought together lecturers and staff from the university’s Vanderbijlpark and Potchefstroom campuses to explore the transformative potential of AI in the classroom, led by a team of international experts from the Netherlands.

The highlight of the workshops was the involvement of three international AI education specialists from Fontys University of Applied Sciences: Koen Suilen, Mark Mettler and Mario Paiano. The team, from Fontys’ Centre of Expertise AI for Society: Team Blended Learning shared their wealth of knowledge with participants through interactive and practical sessions. Topics covered included AI and Creativity, AI: Train the Trainer, and AI Systems, offering valuable insights into the evolving role of AI in modern education.

These workshops focused not only on giving lecturers a solid understanding of AI systems, but also on equipping them with creative techniques for effectively incorporating AI tools into their teaching strategies. By fostering a deep connection between theory and practice, the workshops empowered attendees to harness AI's capabilities and integrate them meaningfully into their classrooms.

In addition to sessions for lecturers, the international team also hosted two dedicated sessions for NWU students. These workshops provided students with the skills to create more effective prompts for generative AI systems, enabling them to produce compelling images and videos. Furthermore, students were taught how to use AI to code and develop an elementary computer game, ensuring they could engage with AI tools creatively and technically.

The inclusion of practical applications such as these is one of the key strengths of the NWU’s approach to AI education. Rather than just discussing AI in abstract terms, the university’s workshops allow students to develop hands-on expertise, preparing them for the rapidly changing landscape of technology.

Prof Van den Berg emphasised the importance of collaboration with Fontys University: “These workshops demonstrate the innovative potential of AI in education. Collaborating with Fontys has not only enriched the knowledge and skills of our lecturers and students, but it has also inspired them to harness AI creatively, responsibly and effectively, shaping the landscape of teaching and learning in South Africa.”

With these successful workshops, the NWU is also offering an open invitation to other educational institutions that are keen on integrating AI into their teaching practices. Prof Van den Berg and her team at TELIT-SA are available to collaborate and provide guidance on training educators in AI-related pedagogy.

For more information or to explore potential collaborations, institutions are encouraged to contact Prof Van den Berg at liandi.vandenberg@nwu.ac.za.

High policy uncertainty levels reason for unchanged interest rates

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 07:15:16 +0000

High policy uncertainty levels reason for unchanged interest rates BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 03/24/2025 - 09:15

The decision by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to leave the repo rate unchanged highlights the role of non-model-based judgement in policy choices, especially in current uncertain circumstances.

Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the North-West University (NWU) Business School, says this decision that was made by the MPC on 20 March was decided by a 4 to 2 vote.

“Since the MPC’s previous meeting in January, highly elevated levels of global and domestic policy uncertainty have convinced a majority of MPC members to pause in its interest rate-easing cycle. The MPC now awaits greater clarity around these developments in the months ahead.”

Prof Parsons says from the MPC statement it is evident that inflation trends in South Africa are now basically converging around the 4,5% midpoint of the inflation target range – yet monetary policy is nonetheless still in restrictive territory.

“Scope therefore still exists for resumed cuts in borrowing costs for business and consumers later in the year. There also appears to be a minority view within the MPC that interest rates could still be further reduced to support economic recovery.”

He points out that on the growth front the MPC has slightly reduced its 2025 gross domestic product (GDP) growth forecast to 1,7%, and a similar 2026 growth projection remains unchanged. On the downside, the MPC sees risks to the growth outlook. At a time when South Africa needs to see much higher inclusive economic growth it is disappointing that the MPC has found it necessary to trim its 2025 growth forecast.

“It also suggests that the 2025 growth rate assumption of 1,9% in the amended Budget may be too optimistic. The MPC has already previously emphasised that only accelerated structural reforms can ensure that South Africa can reach the desired growth rate of the Government of National Unity (GNU) of 3% by, say, 2027.”

NWU launches entrepreneurship hub to boost innovation – and hope

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:01:44 +0000

NWU launches entrepreneurship hub to boost innovation – and hope

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 03/20/2025 - 17:01

Universities are evolving beyond academic learning and becoming “dynamic hubs of innovation and entrepreneurship”, according to Professor Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU).

He was speaking at the official handover ceremony for the North West Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub site, held at the Mahikeng Campus on 19 March 2025 and marking the start of a development aimed at fostering business growth and innovation in the province.

The event, held in collaboration with the North West Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT) and the Young African Entrepreneurs Institute (YAEI), formalised the transfer of the site and the province’s financial commitment to the project.

Reshaping the future of the province

“This initiative represents more than a project; it embodies a vision, a promise, and the collective ambition to reshape the future of our province, country and its people,” Prof Tyobeka said. “It is a symbol of hope and a catalyst for transformation, born from the collective strength of minds and hearts united with a shared vision and strategic intent.”

He highlighted the importance of providing aspiring entrepreneurs with access to knowledge, resources and mentorship to develop sustainable businesses, and noted that entrepreneurship is a driver of economic growth and a solution to unemployment, particularly among the youth.

Citing research from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, Prof Tyobeka pointed out that while many South Africans recognise business opportunities, fear of failure prevents them from taking the first step. “This hub is crucial in ensuring the emergence and success of entrepreneurs who can serve as catalysts for innovation and economic progress.”

Beacon for young entrepreneurs

The MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane, reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship through structured support systems and funding. She described the handover as a transition from “concept to concrete”, laying the groundwork for an environment where innovation and business development can thrive.

“The hub will be a beacon for young entrepreneurs, offering access to skills development, mentorship and financial opportunities necessary for business success,” said MEC Lenkopane. She also outlined the provincial government’s expectations for the hub, which include fostering innovation, enhancing youth skills, supporting sustainable businesses and driving digital transformation in the province.

The CEO of YAEI, Risuna Maluleke, echoed the sentiments shared by the Vice-Chancellor and MEC, emphasising that the hub represents more than just a physical space. “This is a symbol of our collective belief in the potential of young people in the North West. YAEI is committed to ensuring that this vision materialises and that young entrepreneurs are provided with the tools and networks they need to succeed,” he said.

The provincial government, through DEDECT, has committed financial resources to support the development of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub. It is expected to complement existing efforts to reduce unemployment by creating opportunities for youth not only to seek employment but also to generate it.

Professor Tyobeka concluded by urging aspiring entrepreneurs to take advantage of the hub, describing it as a platform to nurture talent and encourage business development. “Although the journey will not always be easy, with the right mindset, mentorship and perseverance, there are no limits to what one can achieve.”

A symbolic site handover ceremony marked the official commencement of the hub’s development, generating a shared sense of excitement and optimism among stakeholders.

For the love of the language: Master’s-degree student to write entire dissertation in Setswana

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 12:20:07 +0000

For the love of the language: Master’s-degree student to write entire dissertation in Setswana BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 03/19/2025 - 14:20

By Gofaone Motsamai

Master’s degree student Otsile Emily Moatshe from the Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research niche area of the North-West University (NWU) is advancing the role of Setswana in academic research.

She is the first student at ILMA to write a master’s-degree dissertation entirely in Setswana, aligning with the research niche area’s focus on African languages in the media. She is supervised Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe – a renowned scholar in journalism, film, and television studies at the NWU.

Her master's-degree dissertation is titled “Tshekatsheko ya puosetso mo diphetolelong tsa dikgang tsa Setswana mo kgasong ya dikgang tse di tlhophilweng: Tobiso ya Motsweding FM le Mahikeng FM” (An expository study of the significance and role of culture language on Setswana news media platforms: The case of Motsweding FM and Mahikeng FM). It focuses on the role of translation (puosetso) in indigenous language media, with a particular emphasis on the case of Motsweding FM and Mahikeng FM.

Otsile says her decision to pursue postgraduate studies in Setswana is rooted in a lifelong passion for the language. “From a young age, there was nothing I took more pride in than my home language, Setswana. As Batswana say, ‘Modisa wa dikgomo o tswa natso sakeng, mme tloga tloga e tloga kgale’ (a good herder grows with their cattle). Today, I am a second-year Master of Arts in Setswana candidate, and I am beyond proud of myself for staying true to my dreams.”

She believes indigenous languages deserve equal recognition in academia, despite the dominance of English. “I believe in the power of indigenous languages. Writing my master’s-degree dissertation in Setswana is a way of proving that our languages are just as capable of academic rigor as English,” she says.

However, researching in Setswana comes with challenges, particularly the limited availability of academic resources. “Unlike English, where there is an abundance of journals and books, Setswana academic literature is scarce. This means I often have to rely on primary research, oral history and personal interpretations of existing literature,” she says.

Otsile sees her work as a contribution to the preservation and promotion of Setswana in academic spaces. “There is no better time than now to reclaim our languages,” she says.

Otsile Emily Moatshe.

Scientific diagnosis takes the guesswork out of disease control

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 06:46:51 +0000

Scientific diagnosis takes the guesswork out of disease control

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 03/19/2025 - 08:46

A disease without a diagnosis is a battle fought in the dark. Without precise diagnostic tools, treatment decisions become guesswork, prevention efforts lack direction and disease control remains ineffective. This was the core message of Prof Oriel Thekisoe’s inaugural lecture at the North-West University (NWU).

“Diagnosis is the foundation of disease control,” said Prof Thekisoe during his lecture on 6 March 2025 at the Potchefstroom Campus. “It determines the effectiveness of treatment and guides prevention strategies.”

Prof Thekisoe, a molecular biologist in the subject group Zoology, outlined how diagnostics play a role at every stage of disease control. Clinical signs and symptoms serve as an initial indicator, but laboratory tests confirm the presence of infectious agents in humans and animals. While traditional methods such as microscopy and serological assays are still widely used, advancements in DNA-based technologies have improved accuracy and sensitivity.

“Microscopy is still the mainstay of diagnostics, but DNA-based assays offer more precision,” he said. “Techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) allow for early detection.”

His research has contributed to developing DNA-based diagnostic assays targeting specific gene fragments of various diseases, including trypanosomosis, theileriosis and Newcastle disease. These technologies have implications for large-scale epidemiological studies, vaccination programmes and quarantine measures.

Prof Thekisoe emphasised that effective disease control requires continuous diagnostic monitoring. After treatment, follow-up diagnostics assess the success of interventions. Prevention strategies, such as vaccination campaigns, also rely on diagnostics to measure impact.

“Without diagnostics, we are blind in our efforts to control disease,” he said. “It is the tool that enables informed decision-making.”

The lecture highlighted collaborations with researchers working on improving diagnostic accuracy for human and animal diseases. These partnerships have advanced the development of diagnostic tools for conditions such as bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis.

As global health threats evolve, the need for robust diagnostic systems is amplified. “Investment in diagnostic innovation is investment in disease control,” said Prof Thekisoe. “It is the first step toward effective health management.”

Prof Oriel Thekisoe.

TTIS starts 2025 with a strong focus on innovation

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 10:03:16 +0000

TTIS starts 2025 with a strong focus on innovation

by Vukosi Mathale

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 03/18/2025 - 12:03

The Technology Transfer and Innovation Support (TTIS) office has begun 2025 with a renewed commitment to helping researchers turn their ideas into real-world solutions. TTIS has played a key role in two major events: the Research and Innovation (R&I) Induction Session and the Research and Innovation Colloquium.

New researchers were exposed to the various support systems through the R&I Induction Session, which was organised by the NWU's Research and Innovation portfolio. TTIS provided information on patents, licensing and commercialisation tactics, while highlighting the significance of intellectual property (IP) protection.

At the Research and Innovation Colloquium, which took place at the Sun City Convention Centre, the final session was devoted to the topic of “Innovations for shaping a sustainable tomorrow: aligning research to market needs”, with an esteemed panel of experts:

· Ms Nontombi Maseko, director of Innovation and Technology Policy and Strategy at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the DTIC)

· Ms Jetane Charsley, chief director (head) of National Intellectual Property Management Office (NIPMO) at the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI)

· Dr Andrew Bailey, RTTP, acting director of Research Contracts and Innovation, University of Cape Town (UCT)

· Mr Duncan Raftesath, NWU Enterprises CEO

Building on this momentum, TTIS has lined up several key initiatives for the year:

· IP awareness sessions: Teaching researchers how to safeguard and market their inventions.

· Meet and greet sessions: Introducing TTIS services and collaboration opportunities to new academic staff members.

· World IP Day: Highlighting the crucial role of intellectual property in innovation and research.

Visit Technology Transfer and Innovation Support (TTIS)

Dr Mesuli Mbanjwa

Dr Andrew Bailey RTTP, Ms Jetane Charsley,Ms Nontombi Maseko, Mr Duncan Raftesath and Dr Janine Chantson