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The Directorate of Research Development and Innovation (DRI) is the capacity-building hub for research, postgraduate studies and innovation at iYunivesithi Walter Sisulu.
INNOVATOR: PROF ADEBOLA OYEDEJI
Innovation Summary
Herbal teas developed to support joint health and mental well-being.
Key Benefits
•Helps relieve arthritis symptoms
•Reduces pain and swelling
•Supports mental wellness
•Delays onset of arthritis
INNOVATOR: MR SITHELELELE BEKWA
Innovation Summary
A portable water testing kit for rapid detection of contamination in drinking water.
Key Benefits
• Detects harmful chemicals
• Identifies microbial pollutants
• Portable and easy to use
• Supports public health protection
INNOVATOR: MR ZANODUMO GODLIMPI
Innovation Summary
A semi-active prosthetic foot designed to provide amputees with a more natural and energy-efficient walking experience.
Key Benefits
• Mimics natural push-off motion
• Improves walking symmetry
• Reduces metabolic effort
• Affordable local manufacturing
INNOVATOR: MS SIPHOSETHU MGWILI
Innovation Summary
An adjustable prosthetic pylon for children that adapts as they grow.
Key Benefits
• Adjustable support
• Durable and adaptable
• Improves mobility and stability
• Designed for pediatric care
INNOVATOR: DR SAMUEL ABEJIDE
Innovation Summary
An environmentally friendly asphalt mixing technology designed to reduce energy consumption and emissions.
Key Benefits
• Reduces fuel consumption
• Lowers harmful emissions
• Improves asphalt durability
• Sustainable road construction solution
INNOVATOR: DR ROSE JACQUILIN
Innovation Summary
A nanoparticle-based hydrogel wound dressing designed to improve diabetic wound healing.
Key Benefits
• Controlled release of bioactive compounds
• Supports tissue regeneration
• Protects wounds from infection
• Moisture-retaining hydrogel technology
INNOVATOR: DR MATHULO SHAUL
Innovation Summary
Research into a traditional medicinal plant with strong potential for TB treatment.
Key Benefits
• Effective against drug-resistant TB strains
• Liver protective properties
• Supports immune response
• Natural medicinal compounds
INNOVATOR: MS SINAWO SIQEBENGU
Innovation Summary
Product verification system that improves food safety and product authenticity in informal retail sectors.
Key Benefits
• Verifies products using unique codes
• Detects expired or counterfeit products
• Provides retailer information
• Generates reports for authorities
INNOVATOR: MS ULENDA AMOGELANG MEDUPE
Innovation Summary
A wearable glucose monitoring device for affordable diabetes management
Key Benefits
• Real-time glucose monitoring
• Biosensor technology
• Mobile connectivity
• Early warning alerts
INNOVATOR: DR NJABULO JOYFULL GUMEDE
Innovation Summary
Development of advanced drug candidates targeting treatment-resistant prostate cancer.
Key Benefits
• Targets androgen receptors
• Uses machine learning and molecular modeling
• Effective against resistant cancer strains
• Strong anti-cancer activity
INNOVATOR: PROF RAYMOND TAZIWA
Innovation Summary
A biodegradable cooling technology using agricultural waste to preserve vaccines, food, and medicines.
Key Benefits
• Maintains temperatures for extended periods
• Works without electricity
• Reusable and non-toxic
• Designed for rural communities
Email Address:
Contact Numbers:
Mthatha: 047 502 2100
Butterworth: 047 401 6000
East London: 043 702 9200
Potsdam: 043 708 5200
Chiselhurst: 043 709 4000
