Operating since 2000, the PDTS forms part of the Technology Station Programme of the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA). “The programme comprises 15 technology stations located at universities across South Africa,” said PDTS representative Dr Shelly Mona.

The PDTS has developed projects such as the Q-care bed management system in collaboration with Pelonomi Hospital. “The hospital needed a more effective way to assist patients with limited mobility who may struggle to call for assistance. Our team developed a system with an electronic call button that patients can activate to alert nurses at the nursing station through a wireless network.”

The system also allows the hospital to monitor nurses’ response times and bed occupancy, helping improve the management of patient assistance, Mona added.

The PDTS works closely with special-needs schools to understand the challenges faced by learners with disabilities and develop practical solutions that promote their safety, dignity and independence.

“At Pholoho Special School, we were approached about a learner with severe epileptic seizures who frequently sustained head injuries from falls,” said Mona. “The helmet provided by the hospital was uncomfortable for the learner, so our team used computer-aided design and 3D printing to develop a customised cranial protector suited to the learner’s needs.”

At Tswellang Special School, the challenge is different, as some learners are unable to wipe themselves independently after using the toilet.

The team behind CUT’s Product Development Technology Station. Photo: supplied

“We are developing a self-wiping tool to help these learners maintain personal hygiene while promoting their dignity and reducing their dependence on caregivers.”

The project demonstrates innovation is not always about developing complex or expensive technologies, but about understanding specific human needs and using engineering to find practical solutions, Mona said.

The PDTS supports clients through different funding arrangements. “Eligible projects can receive subsidised technology development services through a co-grant funded annually by TIA under the Technology Station Programme. Other clients fund their projects by paying for the services they require.”

The co-grant is limited, meaning the PDTS cannot fund every project. Where clients need additional financial support, the station helps them identify suitable funding opportunities and, where possible, guides them through the process of applying for grants from other funding institutions.

The PDTS aims to expand its reach and strengthen its ability to support more innovators, entrepreneurs, businesses and institutions across the Free State.

“We want to build stronger partnerships with industry, government, universities, funding organisations and community-based initiatives so that promising ideas can move more effectively from concept to prototype testing and, ultimately, to market-ready products.”

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa sm

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