The National Foundry Technology Network (NFTN) proudly participated in the CSIR 80 Years Conference, held from 8 to 10 October 2025 at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria. The event celebrated 80 years of the CSIR’s work in science, technology, and innovation under the theme “Science, Technology, and Innovation for a Sustainable Future.”
The conference brought together stakeholders from South Africa, African countries, and around the world to share ideas on how research, innovation, and technology can support sustainable and inclusive growth. The NFTN exhibition stand showcased the impact of the programme support interventions that assist foundries to improve productivity, optimise efficiencies, adopt new technologies, enhance quality standards, and build technical capacity. Through its various initiatives, the NFTN continues to drive innovation, efficiency, and competitiveness across the local foundry sector.
A key moment during the conference was the CEO’s walkabout with board members and the VIP guests. They visited the NFTN stand, where some samples of the programme’s interventions were displayed. The socio-economic impact of the programme was evident, as presented by Mr. Bongani Memela, Interim Executive Manager for Hosted Programmes. In his 15-minute Tech Talk, he spoke about the important work the NFTN is doing in rural foundries, where small and medium-sized foundries are receiving support through access to technology and technical support. He explained how this work is helping to create jobs, strengthen local economies, and encourage sustainable industrial development.
Many people expressed interest in the NFTN’s work, especially in how the programme connects innovation and industry to support rural and emerging foundries. The Exhibition stand became a busy and engaging space where people exchanged ideas, asked questions, and explored opportunities for collaboration.
The NFTN’s participation at the conference reflected its ongoing commitment to growth, innovation, and inclusiveness in South Africa’s foundry sector. As the CSIR celebrates 80 years of excellence, the NFTN continues to play an important role in contributing to industrial development and in supporting a more sustainable, technology-driven future agenda for the country.