DUT INNOVATION INDABA KICKS OFF AT THE DURBAN ICC FROM TODAY, 24 OCTOBER 2022 TO THURSDAY, 27 OCTOBER 2022

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) in partnership with the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), eThekwini Municipality and Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) officially opened the exciting DUT Innovation Indaba 2022 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) earlier today, Monday, 24 October 2022. This prestigious event is set to end on Thursday evening, 27 October 2022.

The theme of the 2022 DUT Innovation Indaba is: Taking academic innovation from idea to marketplace and its main objective is to strengthen the research and commercialisation practices for greater socio-economic impact.

The opening ceremony was facilitated by Mr Zwakele Ngubane, Director: Advancement and Alumni Relations at DUT. The DUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thandwa Mthembu delivered the opening and welcome remarks to the distinguished guests comprising of business experts, academics, entrepreneurs and students. Prof Mthembu indicated that DUT should be about teaching students to solve real life problems and how to find solutions to the difficulties of life. Prof Mthembu further emphasised that in alignment to the ENVISION2030, the DUT innovative curricular and research will shape adaptive graduates that will transform society.

The Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement at DUT, Professor Keolebogile Motaung said that as part of its research and innovation focus within ENVISION2030, DUT actively encourages researchers to consider the commercial opportunities that may arise from their research activities. Prof Motaung elaborated that at DUT professional support is available to researchers to promote innovation, commercialisation and entrepreneurship.

Prof Motaung further revealed that DUT strives for the commercialisation of intellectual property emanating from its research and innovation activities, including licensing and the formation of spin-off companies.

The keynote speaker was Dr Nhlanhla Msomi, Chairman of AfricaBio whose thought provoking presentation was titled: Size really does not matter, impact does: Leveraging design thinking, open science and local context to drive innovation. He encouraged the guests to start thinking of innovation within their contexts.

This afternoon, the DUT Innovation Indaba2022 Opening Cocktail Party will be held at the Durban ICC from 17h00.

The four-day event will end on a high note with an exhilarating DUT Innovation Indaba2022 Gala Dinner to be held at the Durban ICC on Thursday, 27 October 2022 from 18h00. Besides the Fashion Show, this is where the South African Research Management System (SARMS), which will enhance how the University manages its research will be launched. Details will be provided as to how SARMS enabled to automate digitally the Higher Degrees Committee for a more technology fit purpose as aligned to the ENVISION2030.

Another key item on the Gala Dinner will be the anticipated launch of the DUT Blazer. Those in attendance will get a chance to view the blazer for the first time on the day.

Pictured: The DUT Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement, Professor Keolebogile Motaung, Dr Nhlanhla Msomi, Chairman of AfricaBio, Dr Hajira Mashego, CEO: Fitness Junction, Ms Phumza Sokhetye, Director: Kingspark Manufacturers, Ms Zimkhitha Peter, CEO: Alan Gray and Mr Zwakele Ngubane, DUT Director: Advancement and Alumni Relations at the opening of the DUT Innovation Indaba at the Durban ICC.

Simangele Zuma