The 17th WIPO Summer School is an indication of how close the peoples of the world have come; but most importantly, it is a reminder of how interconnected the world economies are, and that the meeting places have become lecture rooms where anyone comes and learn. For two full weeks, The Radisson Blu, Umhlanga, Durban, will be lecture room where there will be learning and teaching each other. Some of these ‘students’ and ‘lecturers’ will be from MUT’s neighbours, the Durban University of Technology (DUT). The WIPO is giving a boost and assurance as it offers attendees a chance to network and share ideas that will guide them into the future. From what these DUT students are saying about attending the event, it has become clear that for them WIPO Summer School is going to be their launch pad for their businesses. Miniyentokozo Mkhize is a Child and Youth Care student doing her second year and is an entrepreneur. Mkhize said she was at the event because she sees herself as “a successful businesswoman and I believe that I have brilliant business ideas. I want to learn how I can protect my ideas and educate others who are talented on how they can turn their ideas into money.”
Another aspiring DUT student, Aphelele Mwelase, an Analytical Chemistry student, met a leader of the MUT event organising team, Dr Mandla Hlongwane, during a panel discussion at DUT. Mwelase was interested in the summer school and asked a DUT staffer who was in contact with Hlongwane, to help her to be part of the event “because I have aspirations and visions for what my future looks like. I requested that I be considered because Intellectual property comprehension will be a crucial factor in my endeavors as I will branch into sectors like private equity and inventive innovation sectors,” Mwelase said.
Another DUT student from rural KwaZulu-Natal, Banele Khumalo enjoys exploring new ideas, learning how things work, and finding ways to use science to solve everyday problems. This third year Bachelor of Applied Science in Biotechnology student said he was invited by Dr Hlongwane. “I was genuinely excited because the event would give me a chance to gain real knowledge and practical understanding of Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer. As a biotechnology student and an upcoming scientist, I want to learn how innovations are protected, how they can make an impact globally, and how IP can help me turn scientific research into solutions that truly benefit people,” said Khumalo.
Nqobile Mgwaba, also from DUT, says she has growing interest in entrepreneurship, specifically in food and product development. I have been creating a line of spices and marinades inspired by local flavours. I am here to learn how to scale the idea into real business. I am passionate, hardworking, and excited to collaborate and gain practical knowledge throughout this programme,” said Mgwaba.
And lastly, Thokozani Buthelezi, also from DUT, is at the event “because I want to deepen my understanding of intellectual property (IP) law and its global role, especially in driving economic and social development”, Buthelezi said. Buthelezi said that he believes that by learning from WIPO experts, participating in real-world case studies and group simulations, he can build skills that will help him use IP as a tool for innovation and empowerment. “I also value the chance to connect with other young professionals to share ideas and explore how IP can support creativity, technology, and sustainability”.