GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), a science-led global healthcare company, renewed its research partnership with Stellenbosch University (SU)'s Department of Industrial Engineering on Monday (7 November 2016). The event took place at the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS).

The renewal of the research grant will provide for a second cohort of seven master's students for the period 2017/18 and the buy-out of staff time of the three academic members of the Department of Industrial Engineering until 2018.

The support in the form of a seed fund provided by GSK kicked off in 2016 with the full funding of seven masters students for a two-year period, covering living expenses, fees, travel funding as well as project and field work expenses. It also includes the buy-out of academic time and conference support for three lecturers (Louzanne Bam, Imke de Kock and Dr Sara Grobbelaar).

The students and academics who benefit from GSK funding conduct their research in the Health Systems Engineering and Innovation Hub in the Department of Industrial Engineering. Funding for the establishment of this unit was provided by GSK.

The unit aims to develop professional, trans-disciplinary relationships and links with other research and policy networks. The geographical focus of the unit will be on Public Health Systems in sub-Saharan Africa, with an ultimate long-term aim to train health systems engineering and innovation specialists for the continent.

Speaking at event, Prof Hansie Knoetze, Dean of SU's Faculty of Engineering, said that in the light of decrease government funding for universities it is important to have these partnerships with industry and other funding organisations.

"These kinds of partnerships are important for us to achieve our vision, that is, to be internationally competitive but locally relevant."

Knoetze said the partnership helps SU and the Faculty of Engineering to achieve the goals of being the best African university working towards solving the continent's problems, but with an international footprint and an international recognition of excellence.

"This partnership will help us to sustain the high level of excellence and the development of human capital."

Dr Murray Stewart, Chief Medical Officer at GSK, said the company is committed to the partnership.

"We are committed in funding and in support of people. We are committed in terms of true partnerships which means sharing ideas and discussing what the ultimate goal is."

Stewart added that his company is looking forward to continuing a successful partnership.

The extension of the initial seed funding will support GSK and SU's long-term vision of establishing a Health Systems Engineering and Innovation Centre of Excellence.

• Click here for the press release by the Faculty of Engineering.

Photo:  Prof Hansie Knoetze (back left) and Dr Murray Stewart (front: third from right) with other representatives of GSK and SU's Faculty of Engineering at STIAS.  

Photographer: Hennie Rudman