Are you a postgraduate, postdoctoral researcher, or academic at the University of South Africa (UNISA)? Are you ready to take your innovation, entrepreneurship, and applied technology skills to the next level? If so, the UNISA ApTech Innovation Bootcamp Series is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
Taking place from 17 June to 18 July 2025, this bootcamp series offers UNISA’s postgraduate community a chance to dive deep into the world of innovation and applied technology. Whether you’re looking to commercialise your research, build entrepreneurial skills, or connect with like-minded innovators, this bootcamp has something valuable for everyone.
What is the ApTech Innovation Bootcamp Series?
The ApTech Innovation Bootcamp Series is a transformative program designed to help researchers, postgraduates, and postdoctoral fellows at UNISA gain practical experience in turning research ideas into real-world applications. Originally aimed at participants of the UNISA Innovation Challenge, the bootcamp is now open to all postgrads, postdocs, and researchers at the university.
The bootcamp focuses on applied technology, commercialisation, and entrepreneurship, providing attendees with practical tools and knowledge they can apply directly to their projects. The series runs from June 17th to July 18th, 2025, with a variety of workshops and activities spread over several weeks.
What’s in it for You?
1. Practical, Hands-On Innovation Workshops
One of the core benefits of the bootcamp is the series of hands-on innovation workshops designed to provide practical skills that you can use to improve your research or entrepreneurial pursuits. These workshops focus on real-world applications, teaching attendees how to take their ideas from concept to reality.
2. Insights into Commercialisation and Entrepreneurship
Many researchers and innovators face challenges when it comes to commercialising their work. The bootcamp offers valuable insights into how to take your research and ideas to the market. Whether you’re looking to license your research, develop a start-up, or partner with industry, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape successfully.
3. Networking with Mentors and Innovators
The bootcamp provides an excellent opportunity to connect with mentors and fellow innovators. By networking with industry experts, entrepreneurs, and other researchers, you’ll be able to exchange ideas, learn from others’ experiences, and potentially even form collaborations that could propel your research or business forward. Building connections in the innovation ecosystem is one of the key benefits of participating in this bootcamp.
4. Real-World Tools to Bring Your Research to Life
During the series, participants will be introduced to a variety of real-world tools that can help bring their research to life. Whether it’s the latest software tools for data analysis or strategies for effective project management, these tools will help you overcome some of the most common challenges faced by researchers and entrepreneurs.
Who Can Join the Bootcamp?
The ApTech Innovation Bootcamp Series is open to all postgraduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and academics at UNISA. Whether you’re working on groundbreaking research in technology, business, or the sciences, this bootcamp is designed to help you enhance your innovation and entrepreneurial capabilities. Originally targeted at participants of the UNISA Innovation Challenge, the bootcamp now welcomes a broader audience, giving even more UNISA members the chance to engage with the innovation ecosystem.
How to Register
To participate in this unique learning experience, you need to register through the designated registration link. It’s important to act quickly as spaces may be limited. Ensure that you sign up as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this valuable opportunity.
For detailed information about the dates, locations, and registration process, visit the official bootcamp page at [https://forms.office.com/r/LUUXHVsWV2].
Why Should You Attend?
The ApTech Innovation Bootcamp Series is not just an opportunity to sharpen your skills, but also a chance to contribute to the broader innovation and research community. By attending this series, you will be joining a group of forward-thinking individuals dedicated to solving real-world problems using innovative technologies.
Whether you are interested in commercialising your research, learning the ins and outs of entrepreneurship, or connecting with mentors and innovators, the ApTech Innovation Bootcamp Series provides an unparalleled environment for learning and growth.
Read more: Call for applications: Unisa Hackathon from 30 June to 2 July 2025
The UNISA ApTech Innovation Bootcamp Series promises to be an exciting and enriching opportunity for postgrads, postdocs, and researchers who are looking to sharpen their innovation and entrepreneurship skills. From practical workshops to networking opportunities, this bootcamp offers a comprehensive experience that will help you bring your research to life. Don’t miss out—join the innovation ecosystem and take your skills to the next level this winter.
