Strengthening Research Ecosystems: NUST Leads the Way at SARIMA 2025
In a noteworthy achievement for NUST, Dr Anna Matros-Goreses, the Executive Director of Research, Innovation, and Partnerships (DRIP), has been appointed President of the Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association (SARIMA). The SARIMA conference, held from 2–5 September 2025 in Stellenbosch, South Africa, under the theme “Expect the Unexpected: Unlocking the Value of Research and Innovation Management.”
Reflecting on her new role, she said: "As Conference Chair and incoming President, I am inspired by SARIMA’s role as a catalyst for a thriving African research and innovation ecosystem. I am deeply excited to be part of this powerful network of research and innovation managers across the continent."
Present Cutting-Edge Research Management Strategies
The conference highlighted NUST’s growing leadership in research management. Several NUST staff presented their work alongside peers from the continent. Ms Christine Aitana shared a framework for research management collaboration aimed at boosting research outputs and societal impact; Dr Vuyisile Dlamini delivered two presentations: one on behalf of Prof Omotayo Awofolu, developing an agile postgraduate research management system to improve student throughput, and another, a poster presentation on strengthening research networks for better uptake of innovation in municipalities. Meanwhile, Ms Rennie Munyayi discussed the role of research management administrators (RMAs) in improving postgraduate completion rates, noting how supportive administration nurtures future researchers. Dr Bas Rijnen outlined strategies to broaden research funding by tapping into non-traditional sources.
Driving Impact
These contributions addressed “unexpected” challenges in research and innovation management, echoing the conference theme. “Collaboration between researchers, managers, funders, and communities is essential for meaningful impact,” said Christine Aitana, underscoring the need for united efforts in research management. NUST’s delegation demonstrated the University’s commitment to research excellence and impact by sharing best practices. This aligns with NUST’s strategic goal of promoting regional partnerships for greater impact. Dr Matros-Goreses’s new role as SARIMA President will further strengthen these collaborations and raise NUST’s profile.
