CPUT’s Dr Chris Nhlapo will play a key role in research and innovation in the South African mineral sector.

Nhlapo has been appointed by South Africa’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Susan Shabangu, to serve as a member of the board of Mintek.

Mintek is a leading research and innovation organisation that specialises in minerals processing, extractive metallurgy and related areas.

The organisation is also responsible for developing and transferring new technology for the national and international mineral sector.

Nhlapo, who is the Deputy-Vice Chancellor of Research, Technology Innovation and Partnerships at CPUT, will serve a three-year term on the board. 

Nhlapo, who is actively involved in the national and international discourse on innovation and technology transfer, will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the board.

Earlier this year Nhlapo was also tasked with developing a new framework for innovation in South Africa, as a member of a national task team set up by the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI).

NACI was created to advise the South African Minister of Science and Technology on the role and contribution that innovation plays in addressing economic, social, scientific and technology challenges.

By Candes Keating

Written by CPUT News

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CPUT will host the provincial leg of the Minquiz this year.

Minquiz is a science and mathematics quiz hosted every year by Mintek (the research and development organisation specialising in all aspects of mineral processing, extractive metallurgy and related technology).

The quiz is open to Grade 12 learners attending South African schools and tests their knowledge in physical science, mathematics and general knowledge in science, engineering and technology.

Dr Buntu Godongwana of the Department of Chemical Engineering says Minquiz is meant to invoke interest in science, engineering and technology with specific focus on mineral technology, chemistry, physics and geology.

“The competition provides an ideal platform for CPUT to market itself to prospective students by showcasing the different academic offerings and infrastructure available at the University,” Godongwana explained.

The provincial semi-finals are rotated amongst tertiary institutions and this year the Western Cape quiz will take place on May 17 at the Department of Chemical Engineering’s Science Building on CPUT’s Bellville campus.

“For the students, the Minquiz provides an opportunity to compete for honours and recognition at the national level. It also presents an exposure to minerals technology, in a customised open-day environment with chemical engineering staff from CPUT and engineers from Mintek.

“During the Minquiz academic staff and representatives from industry will be available to interact with students and answer broad questions on available opportunities for prospective chemical engineers and minerals processing technologists,” said Godongwana.

The quiz will start at 9am and finish at 2pm.

Schools are encouraged to register their team of 3 learners – check https://wcminq2018.wixsite.com/home for the rules.

Winning teams and individuals win prizes and the top two learners in two different categories proceed to the finals which will be held at Mintek headquarters in Joburg on July 19 to 20.

Written by Theresa Smith
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Provides coverage for the Applied Sciences and Engineering Faculties and the Wellington Campus.