The Technology Transfer and Innovation (TTI) unit at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) proudly hosted its third Annual Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Research Indaba at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) from Tuesday, 29 October to Thursday, 31 October 2024. This year’s event gathered an inspiring mix of thought leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs and researchers across multiple sectors to explore the vital intersections between innovation and sustainable development.
The theme for the three-day event was: Mapping Innovation, “Entrepreneurship and Research for Impact and Sustainable Solutions” which was inclusive of a total of 12 sub-themes. DUT partnered with Mc Graw Hill Education, Worldwide Information Services (WWIS), Taylor & Francis Group, including internal partners of which were innobiz DUT Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Directorate of Research and Postgraduate Support.
The opening ceremony was facilitated by Mr Alan Khan, Senior Director of Corporate Affairs at DUT. Dr Nomcebo Mthombeni, DUT’s Interim Director of Research and Postgraduate Support, warmly welcomed executives, esteemed guests, staff members, academics, and students for attending the prestigious event. She highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving innovation and addressing societal challenges.
Dr Mthombeni emphasised that the Indaba served as a vital platform for sharing knowledge, inspiring creativity and fostering partnerships that may lead to impactful solutions for sustainable development. She addressed the persistent issue of rapid population growth in the continent, noting that an estimated 245 million people will inhabit Africa by 2050 as individuals relocate seeking enhanced opportunities.
“South Africa’s digital economy is currently emergent at 4% and has the potential to double by 2030. Furthermore, South Africa is rich in resources and talent, there is a crucial need for innovators and producers to harness this potential effectively,” said Dr Mthombeni.
Director of Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE), Harnessing Research for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Dr Edwell Gumbo commenced by acknowledging leadership of DUT, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Thandwa Mthembu.
“The DUT is very well branded compared to other public universities. The challenges that we are facing in South Africa is youth unemployment that is more than 60%, the formal employment being between 33 to 34%, with 10% of graduates who are struggling to get employed and we must plaint entrepreneurial mindset among graduate,” explained Dr Gumbo.
Dr Gumbo indicated that as researchers and academics, they can choose not to support artificial intelligence, yet students are using it regardless. Understanding AI can therefore be beneficial for researchers and academics.
Dr Farai Dziike from TTI and a Commercialisation specialist, introduced five inspiring student entrepreneurs and innovators, each sharing their unique journeys and successes in the world of entrepreneurship. Their stories highlight the challenges they confronted, the creative solutions they developed, and the impact of their ventures.
Ms Sbahle Mhlophe shared her journey as a student entrepreneur, detailing the challenges she faced while building her brand, Sibahle Si Sonke Cosmetics. Mhlophe revealed that she started by using her kitchen to produce her products and she faced criticism, but her determination and commitment to her vision kept her moving forward.
“I am thrilled that my business is booming and operating smoothly. It’s incredibly rewarding to see my hard work paying off and to witness the positive response from customers,” added Mhlophe.
As part of its innovation, entrepreneurship and research focus within ENVISION2030, DUT actively encourages all researchers to consider the commercial opportunities that may arise from their research activities. This will enable the university to position itself as an anchor institution located firmly within its region, to transfer knowledge for the benefit of society and its quad-helix partners.
The institution is aiming to adopt different modalities for the commercialisation of intellectual property emanating from its innovation, entrepreneurship and research activities, including licensing and/or assignment thereof to existing entities, and the formation of spin-off companies. This in turn will serve to enhance the DUT profile as an innovative university.
On the second day of the Indaba 2024, Technology Transfer & Innovation Interim Director Dr Pinkie Ntola welcomed the attendees and encouraged emerging researchers to utilise the 2024 Indaba theme in adjusting to the cutting-edge advancements that are shaping industries, societies, and technologies.
“I am really honoured to stand here today and welcome you to this significant event where we come together to share and engage our DUT researchers and students. I would like to highlight the objectives of this year’s gathering, that we aim to gain an insight through panel discussions and keynotes from industry experts. We also want to showcase our innovation, entrepreneurship and research technologies. We are hoping to discover potential partnerships and opportunities for collaborations,” said Dr Ntola.
Advisor to the CEO of Gautrain Management Agency and Board Member, Dr Tumelo Chaka delivered an insightful keynote address on Consumer Behaviour Strategic in Emerging Markets. He described Consumer behaviour in emerging markets as a key area of interest for businesses seeking to tap into new opportunities and growth potential.
“These markets present both unique challenges and exciting prospects due to factors like rapid economic growth, increasing urbanization, shifting demographics, and evolving social trends,” he narrated.
The event culminated on Thursday, 31 October 2024, once again involving students from all six faculties, researchers, guest speakers and DUT staff members. The entire three days was equally successful, with strong attendance, the distribution of corporate gifts, and active student participation.
Pictured: Interim Director of Technology Transfer and Innovation, Dr Pinkie Ntola and Interim Director of Research and Postgraduate Support, Dr Nomcebo Mthombeni giving the esteemed guest a gift.
Photographer: Mnqobi Ngobese.
Thubelihle Dumakude/Phiwayinkosi Sibiya
