Ms Nickey Janse van Rensburg, Head of the UJ Process, Energy & Environmental Technology Station (UJ PEETS), has been recognised by the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) for her leadership and contributions to advancing technology innovation in South Africa. She received the award on Wednesday, 26 March 2025, at the launch of the Women Technology and Innovation Programme (WTIP)—a groundbreaking initiative aimed at strengthening the role of women in technology and innovation.
As the Station Manager for Sustainable Socio-technical Systems at UJ PEETS, Ms Janse van Rensburg has been instrumental in fostering industry competitiveness by facilitating innovation, technology transfer, and collaboration between academia and industry to drive the green economy forward.
Reflecting on her achievement, she emphasised the importance of diversity and networks in innovation: “Inclusive and diverse teams are essential for success. Women must recognise that their networks are their superpower—leveraging connections and collaboration is key to driving change.”
Ms Janse van Rensburg further highlighted the role of technology stations in empowering entrepreneurs:“We create access to university expertise, skills, and resources for emerging enterprises. I encourage entrepreneurs, particularly women-led businesses, to explore technology station programmes and integrate them into their R&D efforts.”
Women in tech innovation programme: Driving change
The WTIP not only highlights the crucial role of women in technology but also seeks to shift industry norms by fostering inclusive innovation ecosystems where women-led enterprises can flourish. It focuses on practical solutions to bridge gender gaps in access to funding, mentorship, and market opportunities.
WTIP seeks to:
- Build market awareness and investment in gender equality.
- Develop tools and methodologies for a gender-responsive approach to innovation.
- Promote women as key players in technology.
- Invest in innovations addressing challenges faced by women.
As a Technology Station hosted by the University of Johannesburg, UJ PEETS plays a crucial role in supporting emerging enterprises in the green economy by providing affordable, cutting-edge engineering services. From clean energy solutions and water management innovations to environmental technology development, UJ PEETS enables enterprises to become climate-resilient, competitive, and socially inclusive.
Under Ms Janse van Rensburg’s leadership, UJ PEETS continues to be a catalyst for collaboration between academia, industry, government, and communities, fostering a regenerative, circular, and just economy.
A platform for women-led innovation
The event also showcased the inspiring work of women-led emerging enterprises, many of whom have been supported by UJ PEETS, reinforcing the importance of fostering female participation in technology and innovation.
WTIP aims to dismantle systemic barriers in funding, support, and development, ensuring a future where women thrive in technology and innovation. By addressing these challenges, WTIP is set to create new opportunities and reshape the landscape for women entrepreneurs in South Africa’s tech sector.
