Human Resource Development and Knowledge Production

23 June 2005

Today the Departments of Science and Technology and Education started a two-day conference that aims to present clear high-level practical solutions to the problems of human resource development and knowledge production to support economic growth and the quality of life of our citizens.

The aim of the conference is to seek solutions and outcomes that straddle research, policy and best practice that will assist government academia and the business sector to promote research, development and innovation in the context of global, continental and local challenges

In her opening address the Minister of Education, Naledi Pandor, said the creation of a national cadre of researchers is recognised internationally as being of critical importance in sustainable growth and development. She indicated that improvements have been made but that “this improvement conceals three worrying trends: the decline in our research output, the decline in our research capacity, and the decline in our public spending.” This conference provides an opportunity for all partners in education, training and research and skills development to propose practical solutions for improving knowledge and research production in our country.

The National Research and Development (R&D) Strategy accepted by Cabinet in 2002 highlighted that there is the grave shortage of young productive researchers. Scientists and engineers at doctoral and post-doctoral levels are in short supply in South Africa, resulting in rigidities and inflexibility in our innovation system and economy. There are high levels of mobility out of the science and technology system into careers that are not science-related and through emigration.

The conference attendance is representative of the leadership of the academic, research and government and business. The conference synthesis paper has indicated the need for a clear way forward and the working groups will produce an action plan for presentation to the Minister’s at the conclusion of the conference, coving education, training and employment, research infrastructure global issue and research investment, among others

The Minister of Science and Technology, Mosibudi Mangena; welcomed the initiative and emphasised that the conference is prompted by the urgency to find practical solutions to the problems of human resource development and knowledge production to support economic growth and quality of life.

Issued by the Department of Science and Technology.

Contact: Nhlanhla Nyide
082 8716767