Pretoria: Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, Professor Blade Nzimande, has announced the 12 members of the Working Group on Science, Technology, and Innovation Funding (STI-WG). The aim of the working group is to advise the Minister on the implications and impact of the recent withdrawal of funding by the United States of America (USA) government from key research and development programmes in South Africa.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Working Group consists of notable figures from the academic and scientific community including Dr Derrick Swartz from NMU, who will serve as the Working Group Chairperson. Other members include Prof Ari Sitas, Acting Director of the Institute of African Alternatives, and Prof Sarah Mosoetsa, CEO of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC). The group is tasked with analyzing the impact of the US fund withdrawal on South African public research and innovation.
The terms of reference for the Working Group also include assessing the current geo-political risks related to science, technology, and innovation (STI) and advising on how South Africa should position itself to address these challenges. Additionally, the group will propose policy and strategic responses to ensure the long-term security and sustainability of the STI system in South Africa, with a focus on the role of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI).
The Working Group is expected to deliver its first draft report to the Minister within four weeks of beginning their work, with the final report due by 30 June 2025.