The gap between academic research and real-world application narrowed significantly this week as the Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) Technology Transfer Office (TTO) hosted the Research to Impact” workshop. Held on 23 March 2026, the workshop brought together academics from the Departments of Environmental and Biomedical Technology. Dr Mandla Hlongwane, Deputy Director: Technology Transfer in the Research Directorate, said the primary goal was to equip researchers with the tools to transform laboratory breakthroughs into marketplace innovations that address global health and societal challenges.
The workshop provided a deep dive into the “innovation pipeline,” guiding participants through the complexities of intellectual property (IP) protection, commercialisation, and entrepreneurship. Dr Hlongwane noted that the session pushed academics to look beyond publishing papers. Researchers engaged with critical concepts, including identifying market potential, aligning research and development (R&D) with consumer needs, and exploring strategies for launching University spin-out companies. “These discussions equipped academics with a clearer understanding of how to position their work for real-world impact and long-term sustainability,” said Dr Hlongwane.
The highlight of the event was a keynote address by Professor Bavesh Kana, a globally recognised leader in infectious disease research and Head of the School of Pathology at Wits University. Professor Kana shared the remarkable journey of his work during the tuberculosis and COVID-19 crises. By developing “biomimetic” diagnostic controls, tools that allowed for safe, large-scale testing worldwide, his research transitioned from a high-end lab concept into a tangible solution. This breakthrough led to the birth of SmartSpot Pty Ltd, a university spin-out that now supports diagnostics in over 50 countries. Dr Hlongwane highlighted Professor Kana’s journey as a “compelling example” of how academic rigour can evolve into a commercially viable and socially impactful venture.