TRCTI Profile
TRCTI Profile
The DSTI/NRF Trilateral Research Chair in Transformative Innovation is hosted by the University of Johannesburg, located within the College of Business and Economics and led by Prof. Erika Kraemer-Mbula.
What We Do:
The Chair, funded by the South African National Research Foundation since 2019, is a groundbreaking international partnership involving:
- University of Johannesburg, South Africa
- African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), Kenya
- Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU), University of Sussex, UK
Our work focuses on:
- Exploring Transformation through innovation and the 4IR from an African perspective
- Empowering the Next Generation of African scholars, fostering future leaders in transformative innovation.
- Shaping Policy by collaborating with policymakers to support research-informed change.
Teaching & Learning:
Our growing program supports Master’s and PhD students across our partner sites:
- University of Johannesburg (South Africa)
- ACTS through Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (Kenya)
- University of Sussex (UK)
The Chair houses a diverse and vibrant team of researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students. We host visiting academics, seminars, conferences, and workshops to deepen our research impact and share our findings with a global audience.
Partners and Collaborators

Leading business education and research
College of Business and Economics (CBE)

Innovating for sustainable development
African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS)

Pioneering education and research
Science Policy Research Unit

Advancing innovation and scientific excellence
Department of Science and Innovation

Supporting research and innovation
National Research Foundation (NRF)

Driving innovation for global development
International Development Research Centre (IDRC)

Connecting experts and leaders in economics of learning
Global Network for Economics of Learning

Promoting economics of learning and innovation
African Network for the Economics of Learning

Fostering access to innovation
Open Air Initiative

United Nations University – Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute
UNU MERIT

Process, Energy & Environmental Technology Station
UJ PEETS

Human Sciences Research Council
HSRC

Centre for Science, Technology & Innovation Indicators
CESTII

The American University in Cairo