A conference examining how technology, research and innovation can help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) become more competitive, begins today.
The three-day conference, hosted by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) through the Tshumisano Trust, takes place in Boksburg until 14 June.
Tshepo Motloung, manager of the Technology Diffusion Programme within the DST, says policy-makers, SME development agencies, academics, entrepreneurs, technology managers and skills development advisors are expected to attend.
Academic institutions will also share the results and insights gained from research activities they have been involved with. SMEs have the opportunity to network and form collaborative partnerships with academic institutions, he says.
The conference is expected to attract about 500 delegates, and offers 140 speakers. Motloung says the cost of attending the conference has been kept low at R200 per delegate in order to encourage greater participation from the SME sector.
Mutual benefit
The relationship between universities and SMEs benefits both parties, Motloung says. The university provides SMEs with skilled manpower that can help educate the SME on the use of technology to improve operations. At the same time, the university gains real world experience, which helps improve research, he says.
"In order for Africa to move from a resource-based economy and to innovate using new technology, we need to develop a new pool of thinkers who can help develop innovative products," Motloung says.
The SME sector can play a critical role in making sure these products are commercialised, he adds.
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