CUT Annual Report 2011

CUT ANNUAL REPORT 2011 | 41
• Establishment of a platform in microbial adaptation modelling: The project entailed the accumulation of various projects under the
Unit for Applied Food Safety and Biotechnology (UAFSB) into one overarching project that aims to commercialise outcomes and
transfer technology. Organic acids are tested in foods to check if the preservatives used are effective in preventing food spoilage
and are safe for consumption.
• HIV and nutritional supplementation: This project investigated the effect of a combination of nutritional supplements on the
immune and health status of adult HIV-positive patients, in partnership with the National HIV Council, health clinics, and Red Cross
community workers. Nutritional supplements were provided to patients on a continuous basis. Although the project was concluded
in 2011, the patients forming part of the research group continue to receive nutritional supplements as part of the service.
• Genetic selection and breeding optimisation (“Gene-ET”) of Mukota pigs: The project involved small farmers working with indigenous
pigs, focusing on the artificial insemination and libido of these pigs. CUT’s partner was Quantum Leap Farms. Trials are continuing.
• Sewing Technology and Crafts: Senior students of the Department of Clothing and Fashion trained unemployed women from the
Kagisanong Township in all aspects of sewing by hand and with sewing machines. The training took place under the supervision of
a lecturer in the department. Community members are trained in all aspects of sewing and craft skills and are empowered to start
their own small businesses in the sewing industry.
• Basic Welding Skills: The project involved the teaching of basic welding skills to young people to prepare them for more formal
training in the welding industry, in partnership with the One Stop Justice Centre. Two groups of youngsters were trained in basic
welding skills in view of being taught to make clothes hangers from a round bar. Some of these youngsters have already been
recruited to train at SA Truck Bodies.
• Design, creation and building of the paediatric ward’s playroom at the Universitas Hospital: The School of Graphic Design and Visual
Art transformed Ward 10B at the Universitas Hospital (children’s cancer ward) into a stimulating and healing environment (for
young patients spending months or even years in the hospital) by painting a mural, synthetic grass and a storytelling corner. The
playroom was officially opened on 2 December 2011.
• HIV and breast-milk project: This research project investigated the nutritional
component of breast-milk in HIV-positive mothers, in partnership with the National HIV
Council, health clinics and Red Cross community workers. This research project involved
200 female patients divided into three groups: Fifty patients who are on ARVs, 50 who
are HIV negative, 50 with a CD count under 500, and 50 with a CD count over 500.