Image: Department of Science and Innovation, South Africa
Research outputs continue to rise but business R&D decline remains a concern
The National Advisory Council on Innovation launched its latest report on South Africa’s advancements and challenges in science, technology and innovation on 27 August.
Science and innovation minister Blade Nzimande (pictured) attended the launch, where he welcomed the challenges and progress outlined in the report.
The report says that one important achievement is the increase in scientific publications from 3,693 publications in 2000 to 27,028 in 2022.
“South Africa’s research output has significantly increased, showing the strength and diversity of our academic community,” Nzimande told the launch.
Other positive trends in the report include an increase in post-school education enrolment and substantial increases in research activity and infrastructure.
Challenges and recommendations
However, the report also mentions some challenges the country faces, such as a sharp decline in business R&D expenditure.
“This is an area that requires immediate attention if we are to sustain our progress,” Nzimande warned.
A lack of representation in science awards is also a matter for concern, he added. “Surely it cannot be that 30 years into our democracy some of the key awards do not reflect our demographics.”
In response to the challenges, NACI recommends that a summit be held on transformation within the national system of innovation, to improve diversity and inclusivity, particularly in terms of race and gender, as well as supporting R&D in historically disadvantaged universities.
The council also calls for government departments to collaborate with the private sector, and international partners to secure funding for science and innovation to address the decline in business R&D.
Community innovation
Nzimande called for increased support for community-based innovation initiatives so that the benefits of technological advancements reach all levels of society.
“Innovation does not only come from high-end research but also from communities, and we must support these grassroots innovation initiatives to ensure they contribute to our national innovation ecosystem,” he said.