Advocate Lesly Sedibe, Chairperson of CAPASSO and Attorney of the High Court of South Africa, addresses key issues surrounding music copyright. Photos: Linah Raphela
By Kgabo Selepe – kgabo.selepe@ul.ac.za
The University of Limpopo (UL) celebrated World Intellectual Property (IP) Day 2025 with an engaging event that combined creative talent with expert insights
Hosted by the University’s Technology Transfer Office (TTO) and Digital Hub under the theme ‘Feel the Beat of IP’, the event highlighted the crucial role of intellectual property in protecting creativity and innovation, particularly in the music industry.
In his keynote address, veteran legal expert Advocate Lesly Sedibe, Chairperson of the Composers, Authors and Publishers Association (CAPASSO) and Attorney of the High Court of South Africa, emphasised the increasing significance of IP in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). “No conversation about intellectual property is complete without acknowledging the impact of AI,” he noted.
Adv Sedibe pointed out the rising incidence of IP theft and the urgent need for increased awareness, particularly within academic institutions. He urged universities to evaluate whether new products or creative works require copyright protection and encouraged artists to register their works with recognised music rights organisations to ensure effective rights management and protection.
Naomi Ngoasheng Deputy Director at the National Intellectual Property Management Office( NIPMO)
Naomi Ngoasheng, Deputy Director at the National Intellectual Property Management Office (NIPMO), emphasised that all IP stems from human creativity. “Do not disclose your novel idea before protecting it,” she warned. Although copyright notices are not legally required, she recommended including them to establish ownership and provide a record for future reference.
Nomazulu Mda- South African Music Performers’ Rights Association ( SAMPRA)
Representing the South African Music Performers’ Rights Association (SAMPRA), Chief Customer Officer, Nomazulu Mda explained that their organisation licenses music users to collect royalties, which are then distributed to members. She highlighted that SAMPRA protects not only the rights of performers but also those of authors and publishers.
The celebration also featured a student talent showcase, proving a practical expression of the day’s themes. Second-year BA Media Studies student, Daniel Sibanda, who performed at the event, expressed his gratitude. “Thank you for allowing me to play for you. Playing piano requires deep passion, and I’m grateful for the platform.”
Lesiba Mothoa, Chairperson of the Limpopo Arts and Culture Council (LACC), encouraged artists to take their talents seriously and plan strategically. “Protect your ideas and ensure they benefit you and future generations,” he advised. “Talent alone is not enough; you need to guard your work and make informed decisions.”
Second-year BCom Accounting student, Moeti Napo, reflected on the importance of sharing and protecting ideas. “If you have an idea, don’t sit on it, share it, and seek funding. I also learnt that in cases such as a pandemic, NIPMO reserves the right to buy back IP that has been exported.”
Thabo Kgole, Intellectual Property Officer at UL’s TTO,
Thabo Kgole, Intellectual Property Officer at UL’s TTO, concluded the event by reiterating the importance of IP literacy among artists and creators. “Artists often struggle to understand their rights. Today is about changing that—empowering ourselves with knowledge and ensuring we’re not exploited.”
Students embrace the importance of Intellectual Property, clapping for creativity.