How Science and Innovation Will Drive SA Development by 2027

South Africa’s commitment to strengthening its science, technology, and innovation (STI) ecosystem is taking center stage in the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation’s (DSTI) 2026/27 Annual Performance Plan (APP).

Presented to Parliament by Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina and Director-General Mlungisi Cele, the plan reflects both the urgency of current global challenges and the country’s ambition to position innovation as a key driver of inclusive development.

Responding to a complex global environment

At its core, the APP is more than a routine government document, it is a strategic roadmap designed to navigate a complex and rapidly changing world. South Africa, like many nations, is facing a convergence of pressures such as geopolitical uncertainty, economic constraints, declining investment in research and development (R&D), and shifting international partnerships, including reduced funding from the United States for joint scientific initiatives.

Cele described this moment as one defined by “intersecting and mutually reinforcing crises”s which means that challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and public health risks are deeply interconnected. As a result, the DSTI is shifting away from isolated approaches and moving toward a more coordinated national system of innovation.

Strengthening investment in Research and Development

One of the key priorities in the APP is increasing South Africa’s Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) to 1.5% of GDP by 2030. This target is crucial because R&D investment is widely used to measure a country’s innovation strength.

Currently, South Africa’s R&D spending has been declining relative to GDP, which could limit its global competitiveness. By focusing on this target, the DSTI aims to rebuild momentum and ensure that scientific research continues to contribute meaningfully to economic growth and societal development.

Improving policy coordination and efficiency

Beyond funding, the APP emphasizes better coordination across government. Structures such as the STI Presidential Plenary and the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) are intended to align policies and programmes across departments.

This coordinated approach helps avoid duplication, ensures efficient use of resources, and maximizes the impact of innovation initiatives. In a time of limited budgets, this kind of efficiency is especially important.

Expanding and transforming human capital

A major focus of the plan is developing South Africa’s scientific workforce. The launch of 41 new Research Chairs by Minister Blade Nzimande highlights the government’s commitment to building research capacity.

These Research Chairs are particularly aimed at historically disadvantaged institutions and universities of technology. They also seek to increase participation by young black and women researchers, addressing inequalities in the scientific community while creating opportunities for future innovators.

Supporting the Just Energy Transition

Energy sustainability is another important priority. The DSTI is supporting South Africa’s transition to cleaner energy sources, with a strong focus on hydrogen technologies.

Through initiatives such as the Hydrogen South Africa Strategy and the Hydrogen Society Roadmap, the country aims to position itself as a leader in the global hydrogen economy. These efforts are coordinated through the IMC on the Hydrogen Economy, showing how collaboration across sectors is essential for large-scale transformation.

Strengthening health innovation and pandemic preparedness

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the importance of being prepared for health emergencies. In response, the DSTI is investing in vaccine manufacturing and broader pandemic preparedness.

By strengthening local capabilities, South Africa can reduce its reliance on external sources and respond more quickly to future crises. This focus on health innovation highlights the role of science in protecting public well-being.

The role of partnerships and collaboration

Partnerships are central to the success of the APP. The DSTI is working to strengthen collaboration with other government departments, agencies, and state-owned enterprises.

Entities such as the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) play an important role, particularly in disaster risk management. Through satellite mapping and geospatial tools, SANSA helps provide critical data for responding to natural disasters and environmental challenges.

Investing in strategic science infrastructure

Despite financial constraints, the Department continues to prioritize key scientific infrastructure. Major projects like the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) and the Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI) are vital for advancing research and attracting international collaboration.

These investments not only support scientific discovery but also enhance South Africa’s global reputation in science and technology

Focusing on emerging technologies and Knowledge Systems

The APP also highlights the need to invest in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, energy security, space science, vaccine innovation, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems.

These fields represent future opportunities for growth and development. By investing in them now, South Africa can build a more resilient and forward-looking innovation

Innovation for inclusive development

The 2026/27 Annual Performance Plan reflects a broader vision of using science, technology, and innovation to drive social and economic progress. As emphasized by Gina, the goal is not just technological advancement, but also addressing inequality, poverty, and unemployment.

For students and young people, this plan highlights the growing importance of science and innovation in shaping the future. It shows that building a strong STI system is not only about research, but also about creating opportunities, improving lives, and contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable society.