by THEMBAKAZI SITHOLE
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – UNIVERSITIES must transform into globally competitive centres of innovation, entrepreneurship and economic development by forging stronger partnerships with government and industry, according to Professor Rodney Priestley, Dean of the Graduate School at Princeton University.
Priestley delivered the keynote address during the inaugural Science, Technology and Innovation (ST&I) Public Lecture, organised by the ST&I Business Forum at the Emperors Palace Convention Centre in Johannesburg.
Held under the theme, A Public-Private Partnership Model for Science and Innovation, the event brought together government leaders, academics, researchers, policymakers, industry executives and innovators to examine how strategic collaboration can accelerate scientific discovery, commercialisation and inclusive economic growth across South Africa and the wider African continent.
The programme was directed by Dr Nomhle Ngwenya, Chief Executive Officer of the ST&I Business Forum.
It featured keynote presentations from Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Professor Blade Nzimande, Professor Priestley and other prominent leaders from academia, government and the private sector.
Addressing delegates, Priestley stressed that countries seeking sustainable prosperity must invest consistently in curiosity-driven scientific research while creating robust innovation ecosystems capable of translating research into commercially successful technologies.
He argued that scientific breakthroughs alone were insufficient unless supported by institutions, funding mechanisms and policies that enable discoveries to reach the marketplace and deliver tangible economic benefits.
“The American innovation system was not an accident. It was the result of deliberate policy choices that recognised long-term investment in scientific research as an investment in the nation’s future,” Priestley said.
Drawing on the United States’ experience, he explained that universities have become central drivers of economic growth by combining world-class research with entrepreneurship, technology transfer and strong industry partnerships.
These collaborations have produced new companies, attracted investment and generated high-value employment while addressing pressing societal challenges.
Priestley said universities should no longer be viewed solely as centres of teaching and research but as catalysts for innovation that actively contribute to national competitiveness.
Achieving this requires sustained collaboration between academia, government and business to ensure scientific discoveries are developed into market-ready products and services.
He also highlighted the importance of nurturing entrepreneurial talent among students and researchers, encouraging institutions to create environments where innovation can flourish alongside academic excellence.
Such ecosystems, he noted, help transform research into practical solutions that improve lives while strengthening national economies.
The inaugural ST&I Public Lecture underscored the growing recognition that public-private partnerships are essential to unlocking Africa’s scientific and technological potential.
Participants explored ways to strengthen collaboration, increase investment in research and development, and build innovation ecosystems capable of supporting inclusive and sustainable growth.
The event forms part of the ST&I Business Forum’s broader mission to strengthen cooperation between academia, government and industry while positioning science, technology and innovation as key drivers of South Africa’s long-term economic development.
Organisers expressed confidence that continued dialogue and collaboration would help create an environment in which research excellence, entrepreneurial ambition and strategic investment combine to deliver lasting prosperity for future generations.
– CAJ News