From VISTA to BRICS – opportunities for innovation? In their criticism of the BRICS relevant to the needs of the region. grouping in general, critics raised From a science and engineering issues such as divergence in the point of view, researchers at the goals of BRICS member countries, University of Pretoria have much to large differences in the size of bring to the table. their economies and economic performance, established In this issue of Innovate, you will find networks with G7 countries that interesting examples of research were too strong, and so forth. being conducted at the University. EDITORIAL For South Africa, however, it was This research is not only highly an opportunity to become part of a relevant to the needs of our own huge economic power block. It also region, but is also of international created an opportunity to act as a importance. There are contributions representative and link for the sub- on cochlear implants, renewable In 2010, South Africa was Saharan region to the other BRICS energy, nuclear energy and so forth. member countries. In fact, there are quite a number invited to join the BRIC (Brazil, of interesting contributions on An important potential benefit of the University’s energy research Russia, India and China) group membership is the opportunities projects. Some other fascinating that could be created for the articles examine the search for of countries as a member. The development of technological Noah’s Ark and the roots of capabilities and skills. Developing industrial engineering. I trust you invitation raised a spectrum of countries are characterised by their will enjoy these contributions. comments, some for and some dependence on foreign technologies and skills. South Africa should And on a final note: After against it. For South Africa, therefore make use of opportunities 13 years as Dean of the Faculty of created by the BRICS network Engineering, Built Environment and however, it was an elevation to establish new science and Information Technology, Prof Roelf technology collaborations. Sandenbergh has handed over the from the VISTA (Vietnam, reins to his successor, Prof Sunil Long-term economic development Maharaj. During his term as Dean, Indonesia, South Africa, Turkey usually takes place through a the Faculty has grown from strength series of strategies, starting with a to strength, especially in terms of and Argentina) group of labour-intensive economy, followed its research output, the expansion countries to the higher ranked by a product-orientated economy of teaching and research facilities, and finally an innovation-driven the large number of research BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, economy. Strong technological chairs, the growing number of capabilities and skills are important publications in accredited journals China and South Africa) group. inputs to this economic growth and conference proceedings, and strategy and South Africa should use the development of national and An interesting question is, of its BRICS networks to enhance this international research networks and growth process. collaborations. From the colleagues course, what opportunities the in the Faculty, we say: “A job well The University of Pretoria launched done!” new elevated status could bring its Future Africa Initiative with for South Africa, especially from the aim of playing an important role in the further development a science and technology point and strengthening of the region. Different faculties at the University Editor of view. initiated projects and programmes Tinus Pretorius EDITORIAL 4 INNOVATE 9 2014.