Technology Transfer Office strengthens relationship with DTIC

Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships, Dr David Phaho, has revealed that the University Management is “socialising” the need for a Third-Stream Income Strategy across the University, considering the decline in government funding for Higher Education through grants and subsidies.

Phaho said an important component of that is closer collaboration with Industry. He was speaking at the Technology and Human Resources for Industry Programme (THRIP) Interactive Session on New and Active projects. “Throughout its long and storied history, the THRIP programme has been a catalyst to bring universities and industry to pursue relevant research and drive innovation and competitiveness over and above human development outputs such as master’s and doctoral graduates.

“It also pivots university academics to do research and innovation which is relevant to industry,” Phaho remarked. The event was also attended by the representatives from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) - who provided a thorough understanding of the THRIP programme, including its objectives and the KIPP programme for grassroots innovators.

This industry engagement workshop was organised by the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) to strengthen the relationship between CPUT and the DTIC, “specifically focusing on the THRIP”. “The primary objective was to showcase the THRIP programme to CPUT researchers and industry partners, illustrating the benefits and opportunities it offers, funding for collaborative research, access to advanced research facilities and expertise, skills development and human resource training, commercialisation of research outcomes,” said Jayde Barends, Senior Technology Transfer Officer.

The workshop also aimed to provide attendees with insights into successful projects funded by THRIP, highlight challenges and non-fundable aspects, and outline the application process. CPUT in collaboration with industry partners, presented four potential projects for THRIP funding, demonstrating the range of opportunities for collaboration. “The ultimate goal was to equip participants with an understanding of the THRIP program, encouraging more robust and higher-quality and relevant applications from industry partners seeking collaboration with universities such as CPUT,” Barends stated.

She added that the event was well-received, achieving its purpose of providing a comprehensive overview of the THRIP programme and the presentations and discussions effectively communicated the programme's objectives and the opportunities it presents for industry-academic collaboration. “The workshop successfully raised awareness about the THRIP programme and its benefits, likely leading to increased interest and participation in future applications.”

Written by Aphiwe Boyce
Email: BoyceAp@cput.ac.za