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  • Home
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  • Study at VUT
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VUT webinar tackles consumer trust and SA economy

VUT webinar tackles consumer trust and SA economy

February 24, 2026
A PhD candidate from the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), Mr Moshe Mello, recently achieved a significant milestone by securing second place for Thothotho Distillery at the highly competitive National SMME Intellectual Property Commercialisation Workshop, held from 18 to 20 February 2026 at Sun City. Reflecting on his participation, Mr Mello described the workshop as both rigorous and transformative. “The workshop was an incredible experience. It brought together innovators from across South Africa, and the level of competition was intense. Being the only representative from VUT strengthened my resolve to showcase the commercial potential of Thothotho Premium Gin.” The workshop was hosted by the Swedish Embassy through the Swiss Partnership, in collaboration with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), and the National Intellectual Property Management Office(NIPMO). It focused on equipping entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises with strategies to leverage intellectual property as a driver of business growth. “The sessions on IP portfolio management, licensing and valuation were eye opening,” Mr Mello no ed. “I realised that intellectual property is not merely about protection. It is a strategic income stream capable of shaping the long-term trajectory of a business.” During the pitching competition, Mr Mello presented Thothotho Premium Gin, outlining the distillery’s commercialisation journey, brand protection measures and expansion strategy. He demonstrated how research, innovation and strategic branding translate into measurable commercial value. The presentation further explored licensing models and strategic partnerships, emphasising how IP ownership can generate sustainable asset value for the enterprise. The announcement of second place marked a defining moment. “Hearing our name called was surreal,” Mr Mello reflected. “It validated the vision behind Thothotho Distillery and confirmed that our commercialisation and IP strategy are aligned with industry best practice.” Beyond the accolade, the experience prompted deeper reflection on institutional innovation pathways. Mr Mello observed how universities and research institutions globally leverage intellectual property to build equity positions in major corporations. This insight, he explained, aligns closely with the strategic ambitions articulated in VUT’s long term vision, particularly in strengthening commercialisation frameworks to support sustainable institutional growth. Looking ahead, Mr Mello intends to apply these insights to future initiatives. “I now have a clearer perspective on structuring university spin offs, refining IP valuation strategies and building innovation ecosystems linked to research outputs. Aligning research with commercial strategy is no longer optional. It is essential for meaningful impact.” In closing, he encouraged students to embrace entrepreneurial thinking. “In South Africa’s current economic climate, entrepreneurship is critical. With youth unemployment remaining high, students must begin to see themselves not only as job seekers but as job creators. Leveraging intellectual property and innovation can unlock sustainable business opportunities and contribute to economic renewal.

VUT PhD candidate secures second place for Thothotho Distillery

February 24, 2026
F’SASEC hosts Open Day for Electrical Engineering students

F’SASEC hosts Open Day for Electrical Engineering students

February 24, 2026
Vaal University of Technology launched its Road to 60 with a vibrant Kick-Off Festival, welcoming first-years and setting the tone for its 60th anniversary year.

VUT roars into 60th year with energising “Road to 60” Kick Off Festival

February 24, 2026
VUT elevates 60 top learners as MaVuti Ambassadors in landmark 60-year legacy initiative

VUT elevates 60 top learners as MaVuti Ambassadors in landmark 60-year legacy initiative

February 24, 2026
VUT strengthens academic excellence through mentorship and coaching

VUT strengthens academic excellence through mentorship and coaching

February 24, 2026
From Scholar to Research and Innovation Leader: Prof Simphiwe Nelana’s Journey to Associate Professor

From Scholar to Research and Innovation Leader: Prof Simphiwe Nelana’s Journey to Associate Professor

February 24, 2026
VUT hosts business management short learning programme for African students

VUT hosts business management short learning programme for African students

February 17, 2026
Youth voices lead multilingual future at VUT

Youth voices lead multilingual future at VUT

February 17, 2026
Engineering her own path: Mmatshepo Maina on leadership, enterprise and legacy

Engineering her own path: Mmatshepo Maina on leadership, enterprise and legacy

February 17, 2026
Mr Thabo Utloa: From VUT graduate to industry leader

Mr Thabo Utloa: From VUT graduate to industry leader

February 17, 2026
VUT showcases readiness to host 2026 National Science Month launch

VUT showcases readiness to host 2026 National Science Month launch

February 17, 2026
VUT researchers engage leadership on strengthening research funding and policy

VUT researchers engage leadership on strengthening research funding and policy

February 10, 2026
VUT advances smart campus innovation with automated lawn mower demonstration

VUT advances smart campus innovation with automated lawn mower demonstration

February 10, 2026
Wearing the future of VUT

Wearing the future of VUT

February 10, 2026
Rand Water Spokesperson Inspires VUT First-Year Students with a Story of Resilience

Rand Water Spokesperson Inspires VUT First-Year Students with a Story of Resilience

February 10, 2026
Quality Enhancement Forum 2026 drives a culture of continuous improvement in higher education

Quality Enhancement Forum 2026 drives a culture of continuous improvement in higher education

February 10, 2026
VUT fashion graduate makes her mark with award-winning corporate design

VUT fashion graduate makes her mark with award-winning corporate design

February 10, 2026
VUT sets a bold course for the future at the 2026 State of the University Address

VUT sets a bold course for the future at the 2026 State of the University Address

February 10, 2026
Deputy Minister commits funding support for 50 underprivileged learners during VUT oversight visit

Deputy Minister affirms funding support for underprivileged learners during VUT oversight visit

February 10, 2026
VUT Professor Selected for DHET Future Professors Programme

VUT Professor Selected for DHET Future Professors Programme

February 10, 2026
VUT raises gender banner as a symbol of equity and transformation

VUT raises gender banner as a symbol of equity and transformation

December 9, 2025
VUT SRC secures key NSFAS commitments after Cape Town visit

VUT SRC secures key NSFAS commitments after Cape Town visit

December 9, 2025
Supporting the boy child through VUT outreach

Supporting the boy child through VUT outreach

December 9, 2025
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