Ministry of Science and Technology
The ministry of science and technology has announced the establishment of the ministerial committee to review the science, technology and innovation landscape and its readiness to meet the needs of the country.
In a notice published in the Government Gazette, the terms of reference of the committee are set out.
The committee is also expected to report on and advise the minister of science and technology, Naledi Pandor, on the level of implementation of the recommendations of the organization for economic cooperation and development (OECD) review. The review looked at South Africa’s innovation policy in 2007.
It listed South Africa’s strengths, opportunities and weaknesses. One opportunity identified was the potential economic benefits to be derived by building on existing innovation system strengths in industry.
In terms of weaknesses, poor quality schooling, unsupportive immigration policies and an “engineering gap” were some of the listed constraints.
The notice sets out the terms of reference of the committee.
Government wants to see whether optimal use is being made of the country’s strengths and “whether it is well positioned to respond rapidly to a changing global context and thus to meet the needs of the country in the coming ten to thirty years”.
A target of 1% of gross domestic product to be spent on research and development is in place.
The committee will approach its work in two phases.
In phase one, the committee will study and assess the OECD review and recommendations, key policies, strategies and reports of the science and technology department and the role of the private sector in the science, technology and innovation field.
In the second phase, the committee will implement the work decided upon in the first phase and approved by the minister. A report on the performance of the science, technology and innovation system will be drawn up.
Recommendations will be made to the minister on how to strengthen the country’s science, technology and innovation system. Particular attention will be placed on appropriate steps to advance South Africa’s innovation capabilities.
The notice emphasizes that the envisaged process will involve close consultation with key stakeholders.
A dedicated secretariat will be appointed to assist the committee.
A final report is expected within six months of the commencement of phase two.
Sabinet Cape Town Office
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