Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), through its Technology Transfer Office (TTO), recently hosted a World Intellectual Property (IP) Day Workshop that highlighted the growing connection between innovation, intellectual property protection, and the global sports industry.
Held under the theme “Ready, Set, Innovate”, the workshop brought together researchers, academics, students and industry experts to explore how intellectual property drives scientific advancement, commercialisation, and technological transformation across sectors.
Among the featured speakers was celebrated SMU inventor Emmanuel Kiyonga, whose patented breast cancer drug discovery research was supported by the university’s TTO. Drawing parallels between sports innovation and scientific research, Kiyonga explained how technological advances continue to reshape industries worldwide.
“Just like the introduction of video assistant referee (VAR) transformed football, innovation continues to change the way we live and work. Research and development are creating solutions that improve lives every day, and intellectual property protection ensures that these innovations can reach society,” he said.
Kiyonga urged researchers and students to take ownership of their ideas and pursue innovation despite challenges.
“Do not wait for permission to innovate. Do not wait for resources. Resources are limited but innovate anyway. It is important that African researchers develop, protect and commercialise solutions that address our own challenges,” he added.
SMU patent holder Nondumiso Nkosi also shared her innovation journey, explaining how gaps in Hepatitis B testing in resource-constrained settings inspired her to develop a point-of-care diagnostic tool. Her invention became one of the School of Medicine’s early patents, demonstrating the value of transforming research into practical healthcare solutions.
The workshop also provided valuable insight into South Africa’s intellectual property landscape. Dr Elmary Buis from the National Intellectual Property Management Office outlined the significance of the Intellectual Property Rights from the Publicly Financed Research and Development Act, which safeguards innovations arising from publicly funded research.
Bridging intellectual property and sport, Daniella De Fiqueiredo from Adams & Adams Attorneys highlighted examples of trademarks, copyrights and patents shaping the modern sports industry. She highlighted how assets such as the 2010 FIFA World Cup logo, Zakumi (mascot) and official tournament music are protected through intellectual property laws.
She further noted that elite athletes increasingly protect their personal brands through trademarks, while technological innovations, including sensor-equipped footballs, continue to influence the future of officiating and sports performance.
The event resonated strongly with students, including second-year BSc Physical Sciences student and SRC Sports and Recreation Officer’s committee member Pule Mawasha. “I learned the importance of protecting original ideas and recognising the value of creativity. The workshop showed how intellectual property can empower young people to develop, protect, and commercialise their innovations,” said Mawasha.
Representatives from the Technology Innovation Agency and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition also outlined funding opportunities and incentive programmes designed to support innovators from concept development through to commercial production.
Closing the session, TTO acting manager, Mohlatlego Sebola, encouraged researchers and students to continue pursuing innovative solutions that address societal challenges.
The workshop demonstrated SMU’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and knowledge transfer, while equipping future scientists and innovators with the tools needed to transform research into meaningful social and economic impact.
By Rose Moreki
