by Phaphama Tshisikhawe
The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) sparked innovation and artistic passion during its celebration of World Intellectual Property (IP) Day 2025 on 29 May. Themed IP and Music: Feel the Beat of IP, the event highlighted the powerful role of intellectual property in nurturing creativity, especially within the music industry.
Organised by TUT’s Technology Transfer Office, the event brought together students, artists, legal experts, and entrepreneurs to explore how IP supports innovation and drives economic growth. It served as a dynamic platform to raise awareness of the importance of protecting creative works so that artists can receive the recognition and financial rewards they deserve.
Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, TUT’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement, opened the proceedings with an uplifting address. “By safeguarding creative work through robust IP frameworks, we empower artists and strengthen a thriving creative economy,” she said, emphasising music’s dual role as both a cultural treasure and economic force.
Dr Vathiswa Papu-Zamxaka, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement
The programme featured an impressive line-up of speakers. Legal expert, Stephen Hollis from Adams & Adams, underscored the importance of clear legal protection in advancing innovation. “Intellectual property is the backbone of creativity, providing legal clarity that protects and incentivises innovation,” he said.
Legal expert, Stephen Hollis from Adams & Adams
Alumna, Rorisang Sechele, a vocalist and songwriter, told the audience how understanding IP has helped her navigate the music industry independently. “As an independent artist, understanding IP has been crucial to protecting my music and building my career,” she told the audience.
Entrepreneur, Mandla Maseko Snr, founder of SNRGROUP, also delivered a motivational message about how IP can fuel sustainable creative enterprises. “IP empowers the next generation of creators to turn their passion into sustainable businesses,” he added.
Adding an artistic flair to the day, Dr Rostislava Pashkevitch-Ngobeni, Head of the Department of Performing Arts and acclaimed jazz saxophonist, Prof Karendra Devroop, delivered a moving musical performance that captured the essence of the day’s theme.
The event also featured interactive workshops and discussions designed to engage students, staff and local entrepreneurs. These sessions focused on how IP rights can strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and boost global competitiveness.
TUT’s celebration was part of the broader global recognition of World Intellectual Property Day, established in 2000 by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to promote greater awareness of the role of IP in everyday life.
Above: Captivating the audience, TUT’s World IP Day celebration with its blend of insight, inspiration and creativity, was a powerful reminder of how protecting ideas can shape a brighter, more innovative future.
Alumna, Rorisang Sechele, a vocalist and songwriter