CPUT ventures into commercialisation with new Technology Transfer and Industry Linkages Unit  

Research output at CPUT can no longer be confined to journals. With the establishment of the Technology Transfer and Industry Linkages Unit, research output, where feasible, will be commercialised

At the helm of the new unit is Theo Hendrickse, who joined CPUT earlier this year.

Hendrickse holds several qualifications and brings his wide-ranging professional experience, which includes, academic, legal and business knowledge, to this new position.

He holds a Masters Degree in Science (Chemistry) from the University of Cape Town, a B.Proc Degree from the University of the Western Cape and a postgraduate qualification in Intellectual Property and Competition Law from the University of London.

A former member of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Intellectual Property and Chairman of the Patent Examination Board, Hendrickse will provide guidance and support to academic and research staff on matters pertaining to the protection of Intellectual Property (IP) and the exploitation of commercial opportunities arising from their work.

The establishment of the unit will also enable CPUT to comply with new legislation which outlines how intellectual property generated from public funded research should be managed.

During the next few months Hendrickse plans to focus his energy on establishing the Technology Transfer and Industry Linkages Unit on the Bellville campus and securing a visible presence on Cape Town campus.

“IP protection and commercialisation of research output has not been a focus for CPUT in the past, and, if we are to ensure a sustainable approach, we must do the groundwork,” he said.

“The plan is to understand the broader environment at CPUT in which this unit must function. This will give me the necessary insight to know what infrastructure and resources I need to put in place for the unit to function effectively.” he said.

Dr Chris Nhalpo, DVC Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships said he is excited about the unit as it is going to add the necessary impetus to CPUT’s quest to be a leading innovation academy in Africa.

“At present, there is little appreciation of IP as an instrument of growth and wealth creation in South African Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). It is therefore imperative for HEIs to create proper policies and frameworks in line with the IPR Act 51 of 2008 for the management of intellectual property arising from publicly financed research,” he said.

According to this legislation, institutions own intellectual property generated from public funded research.

“Therefore, I think this office is a critical resource to assist CPUT in managing its intellectual assets as there is now an obligation on employees and students to disclose IP to the institution,” said Dr Nhlapo.

By Candes Keating

Photograph: (left) Theo Hendrickse, Director of the newly formed Technology Transfer and Industry Linkages Unit.