We are excited to announce that the University of Limpopo has been designated as the Official Co-Host for the esteemed 27th Annual International Rapid Product Development Association of South Africa (RAPDASA) Conference, focused on the Advanced Materials Initiative (AMI).
This significant event is in partnership with renowned organisations such as MINTEK and the South African Advanced Materials Initiative (AMI).
The 2026 RAPDASA Conference aims to unite a diverse range of stakeholders, including industry leaders, research and development (R&D) institutions, academic professionals, and students deeply engaged in the fields of additive manufacturing, materials engineering, rapid product development, and advanced manufacturing.
This year’s theme, “From Prototype to Production: Translating Research into Reality,” encapsulates the focus on bridging the gap between innovative research and practical application.
This conference will serve as a dynamic platform for both local and international participants from diverse sectors—including industry, R&D institutions, academia, and government—to engage in fruitful discussions and collaborations aimed at nurturing the next generation of product development and advanced manufacturing enterprises across Africa and the globe.
Product designers, engineers, production staff, technical directors, and managers from industry who are involved in the design, development, and manufacturing of products and components are invited to submit abstracts of their work.
Given the growing prominence of additive manufacturing, rapid product development, digitalisation, and automation in the international advanced manufacturing landscape, this conference will offer ample opportunities for delegates to interact with experts and thought leaders in these fields. Furthermore, the conference will feature two pre-conference seminars designed to delve deeper into specific topics:
1. Design and Additive Manufacturing of Metal and Polymer Parts
2. Computational and Data-Driven Modelling
The conference papers will focus on the following array of pertinent topics, including but not limited to:
– Product Design and Development
– Materials Selection for Design
– Additive Manufacturing Techniques
– Rapid Prototyping Methodologies
– Innovations in Advanced Manufacturing
– Computer-Aided Design Applications
– Reverse Engineering Processes
– Design, Simulation, and Modelling Practices
– Computational Analytics in Manufacturing
– Process Modelling Techniques
– Structural Analysis Methods
– Advances in Materials Engineering
– Materials Processing Techniques
– Tooling Design and Development Strategies
– Applications of Artificial Intelligence
– Machine Learning in Manufacturing
– End-User Applications and Systems Integration
– Knowledge-Based Systems Development
– Information Technology Applications in Manufacturing
– Robotics and Automation Technologies
– Management of Research and Technology Initiatives
– Education and Training for Future Generations
– Agile Manufacturing Practices
– Renewable Energy Applications in Manufacturing
This conference presents a unique opportunity to connect with experts, share knowledge, and contribute to the evolution of the manufacturing sector.
We look forward to welcoming you to this impactful event in Polokwane as we collectively advance the frontiers of product development and manufacturing innovation.
The Conference will take place as follows:
️️🗓️Date: 27 – 30 October 2026
⌚Time: 09h00
📍 Venue: Protea Hotel Polokwane Ranch Resort in South Africa
For any enquiries or further information, please contact:
Dr. M. P. Mashamaite
📧 Email: mordecai.mashamaite@ul.ac.za
📞Tel: +27 (15) 268 4326