Photo: Stefan Els 
Universities are in a unique position to do just that together with their ecosystem partners and collaborators to ensure there is societal and economic impact. They are the “engines of innovation and research” where creative ideas are converted into knowledge and inventions that “move society forward and address our societal challenges”, according to Prof Sibusiso Moyo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies at Stellenbosch University (SU).
They are the incubators of designs and concepts that enable spinout companies such as CubeSpace, supported by SU through its technology transfer office Innovus, to secure R47 million venture capital funding for the development of groundbreaking technology that could contribute to the colonisation of the moon and Mars.
They provide the intersection of collaboration and interdisciplinary knowledge sharing that underpins the work of new research entities such as SU’s School for Data Science and Computational Thinking and the School for Climate Change.
They create environments that nurture entrepreneurial spirits, encouraging students to find creative ways of serving society. Innovation is at the heart of student startups such as Drip Markets, a marketplace application designed by SU students to allow people to exchange fashion items online. Save7 is a non-profit organisation started by a group of SU medical students who harnessed the power of algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) to raise much needed awareness of organ donation.
“These examples underscore SU’s commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and innovation in service of society. SU has a proven track record in supporting spinout companies. But it is also recognised for its enabling environment that encourages and nurtures entrepreneurial thinking,” says Prof Stan du Plessis, SU’s Chief Operating Officer and a director of the Innovus Board.
“SU is proud of its contribution to the UN’s 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Our actions are guided by key values and attributes, and enabled by outstanding staff and students, sound operating systems and a deep sense of purpose.”
Nurturing entrepreneurs
Innovus is making significant strides toward SDG 9 of the United Nations’ 17 sustainability goals – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – by driving social and economic development through its innovative spinout companies. It currently supports around 30 spinout companies employing around 400 people, says its Chief Director, Anita Nel.
Although technology transfer is not a major source of income for universities – last year the combined turnover of these companies was R422 million – it does provide a channel for SU to make a significant impact, she explains. “By commercialising university technologies, we demonstrate that SU’s research is relevant, and simply put - making the world a better place.”
Notable among these are SharkSafe Barriers, Nanosene, Phagoflux, and GreenX Engineering. The latter began as a doctoral project focused on enhancing energy efficiency in underprivileged schools and has since expanded to offer comprehensive services, including data analytics, consulting and designing interventions for improved energy usage and environmental impact.
The eco-friendly SharkSafe Barrier technology, developed by marine biologists at Stellenbosch University (SU) and their collaborators, combines biomimicry of a kelp forest and magnetic fields.
Also, in the same Innovation and Commercialisation Division as Innovus, is LaunchLab, an incubator offering support for emerging companies. For more than a decade, LaunchLab has helped launch dozens of businesses and has established itself as a key player in the national and African startup ecosystem. for startup activity across the continent.
Planning for a sustainable future
Corina du Toit, head of SU’s Sustainable Development Impact Hub, points out that institutions that integrate – or even embrace – sustainability in their innovation and business practices are becoming increasingly attractive to students and staff alike. “Not only to ensure sound institutional practices but also to create long-term, systemic sustainability for their stakeholders.” Put differently, students and prospective staff alike want to study and work in a creative setting that is kind to the environment. Location meets innovation.
Progress through collaboration
SU has launched Africa’s first Policy Innovation Lab, a collaboration with the Presidency, the German government, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Situated at SU’s School for Data Science and Computational Thinking, the Lab leverages data science and AI to enhance policymaking. The Policy Lab is making a tangible contribution to the advancement of SA’s SDG goals. It also recently released an analysis of the manifestos of SA’s four main parties who were involved in coalition talks post-elections, using the SDGs as the organisational framework.
Research partnerships
Interdisciplinary collaboration is a cornerstone of SU’s approach, as exemplified by among others the Public Squares Initiative aimed at advancing transdisciplinary research and fostering innovation within its academic community.
Dr Therina Theron, Senior Director: Research and Innovation, says transdisciplinary conversations ensure that research has a lasting impact. “We know that the most complex societal challenges will never be solved through a single academic discipline nor by only involving academic thinking.”
Teaching and learning
In teaching and learning, digital innovation is critical to ensure that the University remains at the cutting-edge regarding student experience, pedagogy and practice. Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Learning and Teaching, highlights the transformative power of adaptive learning platforms that can enhance the learning experience for each student. “One example is SU’s Extended Learning Spaces (ELS) project, with audio-visual equipped lecture venues, which bridges the gap between in-person and online learning.” Additionally, novel methodologies are creating interactive educational experiences, enhancing student engagement and success, and preparing them for future careers.
Social Impact
SU’s commitment to social impact is demonstrated through projects such as the Young Entrepreneurs Programme, the Stellenbosch Small Business Academy Development Programme and the Math Club initiative.
Says Chevaan Peters, SU’s Manager: Knowledge Information Systems and Marketing: “By embracing a holistic approach to social innovation, and as an engaged University, our approach transforms problem-solving from an academic exercise to systemic positive change, fostering collaboration and meaningful relationships. Ensuring reciprocity in practice, SU contributes to positive change and sustainable development both locally and globally.”
As a member of the Stellenbosch Network, an interdisciplinary, cross-sector membership organisation that encourages collaboration, industry, government, society and academia. SU helps contribute to inclusive economic growth.
“Through its many intersecting innovations, SU is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education, demonstrating that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand in creating a better world for all,” concludes Du Plessis. DM