The Technology Transfer and Innovation Support (TTIS) office of the North-West University (NWU) recently hosted the IP Creators Celebration to honour researchers and academics who strive to create impact from innovation.
The event recognised staff and students who have, over the past three years, since the last event, submitted IP disclosures to TTIS on their innovative research addressing real-world problems.
“Innovation begins with a spark of creativity, and it takes determination to turn that into something real, something that can be protected as intellectual property,” said Dr Janine Chantson, chief director of TTIS. “Today, we celebrate those at the NWU who are doing just that. We acknowledge the effort behind every IP disclosure, every patent, every prototype and product.”
A highlight of the celebration was the launch of the NWU Innovators Wall of Fame at the TTIS offices in Building D1, which showcases researchers who disclosed their innovations to TTIS and later received the Top Inventor Award and the Innovation Impact Award at the NWU Excellence Awards.
The keynote address was delivered by Ms Jetane Charsley, head of the National Intellectual Property Management Office (NIPMO), who emphasised the critical role of intellectual property in unlocking the potential of South African research and innovation.
Guests included keen supporters of innovation from the DTIC and TIA, and featured the innovation journeys of Prof Anne Verhoef (AIITSA/Academia Integretas) and Prof Petro Erasmus (Whartels®)
TTIS guides innovators through the full journey of innovation – from idea disclosure to IP protection, technology development and bringing innovations to market. Events like the IP Creators Celebration and initiatives such as the Innovators Wall of Fame highlight the strong commitment of the NWU to fostering a culture of innovation.
To disclose your innovation, visit TTIS: https://services.nwu.ac.za/technology-transfer-and-innovation-support/home
Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, Dr Moleboheng Ramulumo and Dr Janine Chantson.
Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, Mr John Klerck and Dr Janine Chantson.
