Held under the theme Innovate. Discover. Transform. the event aimed to encourage academic staff and emerging researchers to remain research-active and to position UMP’s research for both internal and external audiences, particularly in relation to the Institutional Research Themes.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation, Professor Aldo Stroebel, described the programme as a rich collection of intellectual engagement, debate and new ideas, and encouraged participants to embrace the spirit of the theme.
“I hope that the conversations, presentations and ideas shared throughout the event would inspire new collaborations and open pathways to a more sustainable, equitable and knowledge-rich future,” he said.
Opening the event, UMP Vice-Chancellor Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa highlighted the University’s mission to advance innovation, discovery, and transformation across all areas of its work.
“Innovation at UMP is not just a slogan; it is a way of life. We innovate to discover, and we discover so that we may transform. This speaks to who we are and who we are becoming as a future-focused university,” she said, emphasising the importance of research grounded in context and lived experience.
“Our researchers must not detach themselves from the communities we seek to uplift. Research must breathe; it must walk with people, respond to their realities, and help us reimagine what a truly inclusive and prosperous future looks like.”
The Vice-Chancellor also reflected on the importance of integrity and empathy in research.
The Research and Innovation Day aims to encourage academic staff and emerging researchers to remain research-active and to position UMP’s research for both internal and external audiences.
“High-quality research is not only about output; it is about character. Integrity, good governance, compassion, and collaboration must anchor the work we do. Research that lacks empathy cannot transform communities.”
Looking ahead, Professor Meyiwa encouraged the UMP community to remain bold and forward-thinking.
“As we throw the javelin forward, let us imagine a future far beyond our present moment. Let us activate, engage deeply, share generously, and build knowledge that will outlive us. The impact we create today will shape the world our future generations inherit.”
Building an Innovation Ecosystem
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Beverley Damonse, Senior Advisor for Science Enterprises at the Faculty of Science at WITS, emphasised that innovation requires a holistic, ecosystem-based approach in which all disciplines – from science and agriculture to the humanities and social sciences – contribute meaningfully.
“Innovation must not be confined to a single office or administrative unit but must be adopted as a university-wide culture rooted in collaboration and openness.
It is not a one-stop event; it is a continuous process. It must be a whole-of-university approach, not something handed over to a single office or unit.”
Reflecting on South Africa’s broader landscape, she highlighted the need to respond to unemployment, skills shortages, climate challenges, and emerging global health threats. In this context, she urged universities to redefine success in ways that prioritise real-world impact.
“Real impact comes from research that transforms lives. Success cannot only be measured by publications or patents, but by the difference our work makes in society.”
The programme featured panel discussions, research exhibitions, and engagements that showcased UMP’s dedication to excellence and societal contribution.
Dr Damonse called for stronger interdisciplinary collaboration, deeper community partnerships, and the strengthening of entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystems within universities. She stressed that sustainable, ethical, and community-centred research must remain central to knowledge production.
“Engaged research must be for mutual benefit. It must build active citizenship and ensure that knowledge production is inclusive and ethical. Challenge assumptions. Reframe failure. Build the culture. These are the hallmarks of universities that shape the future,” she concluded.
Panel Discussions and Exhibitions
Two central discussion sessions anchored the day’s programme:
- Transforming Learning through Analytics, AI, and Pedagogical Innovation – focusing on the use of learning analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and pedagogical innovation to advance evidence-based, technology-enhanced, and student-centred practices.
- Innovation for Sustainability and Community Empowerment – exploring how innovative research and practices can drive inclusive growth, sustainability, and resilience within local and regional communities. The session highlighted the intersections between scientific advancement, social impact, and community engagement, demonstrating how innovation can empower people and improve livelihoods.
The programme featured panel discussions, research exhibitions, and engagements that showcased UMP’s dedication to excellence and societal contribution.
Key projects and conversations underscored the University’s commitment to research that transforms communities and promotes long-term well-being.
Follow the link to watch the 2025 UMP Research and Innovation Day:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vkj1VzX0L0
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by JB Creative Cinema. Copyright © UMP