On 9 May 2025, the North-West University (NWU) held a lively event celebrating World Intellectual Property Day (WIPD). This year’s theme was “IP and Music: Feel the Beat of IP”. The event showed how intellectual property (IP) helps to protect music and supports the people who create it. The celebration was organised by Technology Transfer and Innovation Support (TTIS) at the NWU with the aim of informing students and staff why IP is important, especially for creative works like music.
The programme included talks by experts, fun musical performances by students, and a live show by the NWU alumnus and Afro House Star, Bonolo Phiri, also known as Bonolo Bliz. She shared her story of making it in the music industry and explained how knowing her rights helped her succeed as an independent artist. Her talk was followed by a lively performance that got everyone excited. Christiaan Steyn, an NWU alumnus and founder of STEYN IP, explained why IP is very important for musicians. He talked about how understanding copyright laws helps artists protect their music and control their careers. Prof Janelize Morelli from the School of Music at the NWU spoke about how artists are starting to use artificial intelligence (AI) in their work. She said it is important to be clear and honest about using AI, and to think carefully about ethics. She encouraged students to try new ideas while respecting rules.
Students also took part in the NWU Youth Video Competition. Winners received great prizes and the audience got to vote for their favourite performers, making the event fun and interactive.
The NWU WIPD celebration was a big success. It showed that protecting your ideas is just as important as creating them. With music, learning and creativity at its heart, the day reminded everyone how IP helps artists and the creative world to grow.
Dr Janine Chantson, Prof Janelize Morelli, Ms Bonolo Phiri, Mr Christiaan Steyn & Dr Mesuli Mbanjwa
Winners of the NWU World IP Day 2025 Youth Video Competition
Performance by Bonolo Bliz & Eagi
Performance by Sonic Bloom