By Vukosi Mathale

As a testament to their dedication and commitment to innovation, the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Technology Transfer and Innovation Support (TTIS) office has been honoured with the esteemed Department of Science and Innovation / Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association (DSI/SARIMA) Award for Organisational Excellence in Innovation Management.

The announcement was made during the 2023 SARIMA Connect, Celebrate, Collaborate event held in Johannesburg on 19 October.

This internationally attended event brought together a diverse array of emerging and seasoned research and innovation managers from various countries and institutions.

Initiated in 2014, the DSI/SARIMA Awards serve as a beacon of recognition for exceptional contributions in research and innovation management across Southern Africa. These accolades play a pivotal role in fostering growth and accomplishment within the field.

The award not only acknowledges the exceptional efforts of TTIS, but also underscores the pivotal role of the NWU in fostering an environment that nurtures innovation and research excellence. The university's commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and driving meaningful societal impact continues to be exemplified through accolades of this nature.

Dr Janine Chantson, TTIS chief director, expresses her pride in the team's outstanding achievement.

"I am proud of my team and thankful for all their hard work. Even though technology transfer is not easy and their efforts often go unnoticed, they really are making a difference.

“This award recognises the initiative and proactiveness of the TTIS team members – from the Innovation Highway programme for community entrepreneurs, to the fifth annual Leopards Lair® business plan competition and the Innovation Fellowship programme. It also acknowledges that the office has strong processes and procedures in place to support NWU researchers in transforming their research outputs into licensable intellectual property."

Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, also congratulated the team. “This recognition is a testament to their dedication and commitment to innovation."

The TTIS team would love to talk to you – get in touch! https://services.nwu.ac.za/technology-transfer-and-innovation-support/s…

The NWU’s TTIS team.