CPUT’s commitment to addressing real-world challenges has received national recognition, with two case studies highlighting how the institution’s research is making a societal impact in South Africa and beyond selected for publication on the USAf website
In May 2026 Universities South Africa (USAf) launched an open call for impact case studies demonstrating the societal impact of academic work carried out by South African universities. A total of 34 were submitted and 14 were selected for publication.
The two CPUT case studies selected are:
Combating Hidden Hunger through the Development and Commercialisation of Nutri-Caro-E Fortification Technology
Hidden hunger, caused by deficiencies in vitamins and minerals despite adequate food intake, remains a major public health challenge in South Africa, particularly among children and vulnerable populations. Research undertaken by the Functional Foods Research Unit (FFRU) at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) led to the development of Nutri-Caro-E, a patented micronutrient fortification technology designed to improve nutritional status through incorporation into commonly consumed food products.
The technology demonstrated measurable improvements in micronutrient status among pre-school children attending informal crèches in the Eastern Cape. Following successful development and validation, Nutri-Caro-E was licensed to Sozo Foods (Pty) Ltd and incorporated into fortified food products including maize meal, instant cereals, peanut butter products, and stock cubes. Through its incorporation into products distributed to vulnerable communities, including school children and elderly beneficiaries, the technology translated university research into a practical response to hidden hunger and micronutrient deficiencies.
Prof Maretha van Heerden, Head of the Functional Foods Research Unit, Faculty of Applied Sciences: Biotechnology & Consumer Sciences, said: “Being selected as a case study for publication by USAf is a great honour and a meaningful recognition of many years of research, collaboration, perseverance and dedication. For me, it is not only about the scientific innovation behind Nutri-Caro-E, but also about the journey of turning a nutritional concept into a technology with the potential to make a real difference in people's lives”.
She continued: “What means the most to me is the potential impact on vulnerable communities, particularly young children. Hidden hunger remains a serious public health challenge in South Africa, and Nutri-Caro-E was developed to help address this by adding essential micronutrients to foods people already consume. Knowing
that our research could contribute to better nutrition, healthier children and improved food and nutrition security is incredibly rewarding.
“I am also proud that this recognition highlights CPUT's contribution to addressing real societal challenges. It reminds me that the true value of research lies not only in publications and scientific discoveries, but in translating knowledge into practical solutions that can make a meaningful difference beyond academia.”
From Space Research to Space Sovereignty: Commercialising South African Technologies for Global Markets
Research undertaken through the Africa Space Innovation Centre (ASIC) at CPUT has enabled South African-developed satellite communication technologies to progress from university research into licensed products, commercial applications and operational space missions. Through technology transfer to South African space companies, ASIC-developed technologies have generated licensing income, supported industrial growth and reached customers in Brazil, Japan, Europe and the United States.
As CPUT's satellite engineering, research and innovation hub, ASIC served as the research and development engine behind significant nanosatellite programmes including ZACube-1, Africa's first CubeSat; ZACube-2, Africa's most advanced nanosatellite at the time; M2MSat technology; and the MDASat mission. These programmes demonstrated South Africa's ability to develop and deploy advanced satellite technologies while creating intellectual property with commercial value.
Beyond commercial impact, ASIC-developed technologies contribute to Maritime Domain Awareness through applications supporting vessel monitoring, maritime surveillance and maritime data collection. The programme demonstrates how university research can strengthen South Africa's technological sovereignty, support local industry and create economic and societal impact through technology transfer and commercialisation.
Since 2019, these licensing activities have generated more than R3 million in royalty income for CPUT, demonstrating sustained commercial utilisation of university-developed intellectual property.
Jayde Barends, Senior Commercialisation Officer: Technology Transfer and Industry Linkages, said the selection of the case study for publication on the USAf website is a meaningful recognition of the quality, relevance and societal value of the University’s space-related research.
“It provides an opportunity to highlight the work being undertaken at CPUT and to demonstrate how research and innovation can contribute to addressing challenges beyond the university environment. For CPUT, the recognition helps raise the profile of its space-related research and the expertise within the University. Most importantly, the recognition reinforces the value of investing in research and innovation that has the potential to contribute meaningfully to society and to South Africa’s growing space and technology ecosystem.”
Written by Ilse Fredericks
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