Minister Ngubane to be Conferred an Honourary Doctorate of Philosophy in Recognition for his Contribution in Science and Research

22 May 2003

To : All Media
Attention : News Editors/Reporters
Date : 22 May 2003
For immediate release

MINISTER NGUBANE TO BE CONFERRED AN HONOURARY DOCTORATE OF PHILOSOPHY IN RECOGNITION FOR HIS CONTRIBUTION IN SCIENCE AND RESEARCH TOMORROW.

The Department Science and Technology and the Medical University of South Africa (MEDUNSA) announce that Minister Ben Ngubane will be conferred with an Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy at a Graduation Ceremony to be held tomorrow, Friday, 23 May 2003, at the MEDUNSA.

The conferment of the Doctorate of Philosophy to Minister Ngubane is in recognition of his leadership capabilities that paved way for the newly established Department of Science and Technology (DST) to make major contributions to the economic development of South Africa and the quality of life of its citizens through research development and innovation.

Minister Ngubane has led the development of policies and strategies for his Science and Technology Portfolio in South Africa since his appointment as Minister of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology in 1994. In October 2002, Cabinet approved the National Research and Development (R&D) Strategy aimed at building capacity to replace and reinvigorate the ageing community of scientists currently active. The strategy also identifies new research missions and areas where South Africa will achieve scientific and research excellence; and aims to recruit and retain scientists from previously disadvantaged communities.

Minister Ngubane has also been instrumental in enabling South Africa to be a major international science and technology player. He is also the Chairperson of the Commonwealth Science Council (CSC). The CSC annual meeting will take place in South Africa from 9-12 June this year. The CSC amongst other things, aims to strengthen and foster mutually beneficial collaboration between developed and developing countries in harnessing the contribution of science and technology for sustainable development.

Most recently, the European Union (EU)-Africa Caribbean Pacific (ACP) Ministerial Meeting approved the 50 million euros for building Science and Technology infrastructure for the ACP countries. This unique initiative was initiated and chaired by Minister Ngubane in an 18 month negotiation process with his counterparts Commissioners Busquin and Lamy of the European Union.

The conferment of the honourary doctorate on the Minister is due recognition of his efforts to build a new generation of scientists and researchers in our country; and assist government’s purposeful efforts to fight poverty, HIV/AIDS and create more job opportunities for the people.

NB. The media is invited to attend.
Date: 23 May 2003
Time: 10:00
Venue: Medunsa

ISSUED BY THE OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR GENERAL:
Andrew Aphane-Departmental Spokesperson at 082 387 5615