- Our Vision, Mission and Corporate Values
- Organogram
- Map to the DSI Offices
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Contact Lists
- Contact Us
- Minister
- Deputy Minister
- Director General
- Deputy Director General
Our Vision, Mission and Corporate Values
Our Vision
Increased well being and prosperity through science, technology and innovation.
Our Mission
To provide leadership, an enabling environment, and resources for science, technology and innovation in support of South Africa’s development.
Corporate Values
We are guided by the following values:
Professionalism
The Department is professional and delivers high-quality performance to both internal and external stakeholders.
Innovation
The Department is innovative in solving problems and enhancing effectiveness and efficiency.
Ethical behaviour
The Department and its employees are consistent in their actions, and accountable and transparent in dealing with public funds and other resources.
Knowledge sharing
The Department and its employees share and use knowledge constructively to ensure it contributes to the building of a robust and productive knowledge economy.

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What does the Department of Science and Technology (DST) do?
Scientific discoveries and the associated development of new technologies are key long-term drivers of economic growth and development. Innovation, technology mastery and the diffusion of knowledge and new products and services into markets are key elements in this growth and result in sustainable improvements in the quality of life of all South Africans.
The White Paper on Science and Technology (1996) created the policy framework for the then Department of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology (DACST) to establish key enabling policies and strategies to inform the strategic development of science and technology in South Africa.
In 2002 Cabinet approved the National Research and Development Strategy as the basis for the National System of Innovation (NSI). The National R&D Strategy requires performance and responses in three key areas: 1) enhanced innovation; 2) providing science, engineering and technology (SET) human resources and transformation; and, 3) creating an effective government S&T system.
It is in this context that the DST has been established as a separate department to ensure that there is greater coordination, integration as well as better management of all government funded science and technology institutions and to provide a holistic overview of public expenditure on science and technology.
Does the DST offer bursaries?
No, however, the National Research Foundation (NRF), which is one of DST's key science councils, is offering bursaries, through the Technology and Human Resources for Industry Programme (THRIP). For more information please visit: http://www.nrf.ac.za/funding_overview.php
Where can I get funding for my research project and/or invention?
While the DST does not offer this type of funding directly to applicants, there are a number of funding mechanisms available to research and inventions. For more information please see the following contact details of a number of fund managers. For more information please visit: http://www.nrf.ac.za/funding_overview.php
What are some of the careers available for me to pursue in science and technology related fields?
The Science and Youth Programme offers more information to youth in particular about science related issues and careers. More information on science careers is also available on: http://www.careersbeyond2000.co.za/science_tech.html
1. What is the National Youth Service?
The NYS is a government initiative that aims to develop South Africa's young people by engaging them in public service. The programme places volunteers between 18 and 35 in areas of need for no more than two years, allowing them to acquire skills and experience while making a contribution to society.
The government sees the NYS as a tool to strengthen service delivery, promote nation-building, foster social cohesion and provide young people with the skills they need to participate in economic activities. For more information go to www.nysu.org.za.
2. How does the DST contribute to the NYS?
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has designed an NYS programme to support the implementation of its Youth into Science Strategy. This strategy is aimed at identifying young people with talent in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and nurturing this talent. Go to www.dst.gov.za/publications-policies/strategies-reports for more information on the Youth into Science Strategy.
The implementing agency for the DST's NYS programme is the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF). It places unemployed science, technology, engineering and mathematics graduates who volunteer their services at various institutions (mostly science centres and expos, but also institutions like the South African Mathematics Foundation), for a maximum of two years.
3. How is the NYS different from learnerships and internship?
Like learnerships and internships, the NYS offers young people the chance of structured learning and personal development, preparing them for opportunities to further their studies, obtain formal employment or venture into self-employment.
However, it is different from learnships and internships because it emphasises community service and civic duty, with volunteers rendering service to communities for a small stipend rather than a salary.
4. Who benefits from the DST NYS programme?
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South Africa's science, technology and innovation system.
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The communities served by the programme.
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The young people volunteering their services.
5. Are there any other institutions involved in the programme?
The programme is a collaboration between the DST and the Umsobomvu Youth Fund. The following institutions host volunteers:
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Boitjorisong Science Education Resource Centre (Sasolburg, Free State)
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Bokamoso Science and Technology Education Centre (Bochum, Limpopo).
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Boyden Science Centre (Bloemfontein, Free State)
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Eskom Expo for Young Scientists (Boksburg, Gauteng)
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FOSST Science Centre (Alice, Eastern Cape)
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Giyani Science Centre (Giyani, Limpopo)
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Hermanus Magnetic Observatory Science Centre (Hermanus, Western Cape)
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Mittal Science Centre (Sebokeng, Gauteng)
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Mittal Science Centre (Saldanah Bay, Western Cape)
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Mondi Science Centre (Piet Retief, Mpumalanga)
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MTN Science Centre (Cape Town, Western Cape)
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National Science and Technology Forum (Pretoria, Gauteng)
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Old Mutual Science Centre (Umhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal)
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Osizweni Education and Development Centre (Secunda, Mpumalanga)
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Sci-Bono Discovery (Johannesburg, Gauteng)
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Sci-Enza Science Centre (Pretoria, Gauteng)
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South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (Johannesburg, Gauteng)
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South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (Pretoria, Gauteng)
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University of Limpopo Science Centre (Mankweng, Limpopo)
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University of North West Science Centre (Potchefstroom, North West)
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Unizulu Science Centre (Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal)
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Vuwani Science Centre (Vuwani, Limpopo)
6. What do I need to qualify for placement?
To qualify for consideration in the programme you need to be unemployed and have a national diploma or a degree (from a BSc to a PhD) in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.
7. Will I be remunerated while I am working for the NYS?
No, but you will get a small monthly stipend to cover your expenses.
8. Can I volunteer if I'm still a student?
At the moment the DST NYS is open only to unemployed graduates, because volunteers are expected to be on duty during normal working hours. However, the programme may be opened to students at a later stage if institutions are able to host them, as participating in the NYS would give students workplace skills and experience that would help them to be employed immediately after graduation.
9. Can I be hosted in provinces other than my province?
Applicants are requested to indicate the provinces of their choice when they apply.
10. Where can I apply?
If you are interested in volunteering you can respond to the calls for volunteers published in the newspapers from time to time, or send your CV to be kept on the NSTF database for future consideration. Send it to –
The National Science and Technology Forum
PO Box 9823
PRETORIA
0001
Fax: +27 12 841 3025
Email: nstf@scientia.co.za
For more information, please contact :Ms Mokgadi MadigaDeputy Director : Science Promotion+27 12 843 6866 or fax: +27 86 681 0061.or eMail: Mokgadi.Madiga@dst.gov.zaDoes the DST offer funding to emerging SMMEs?
Support to SMME's is channeled through the Technology Stations Programme, which is funded by the DST, and is aimed at assisting emerging SMMEs through product Research and Development. There are seven technology stations in South Africa including: Peninsula, Vaal triangle, Port Elizabeth, North West, Free State, Mangosuthu, and Pretoria. For more information: http://www.tshumisano.co.za
What is the Tshumisano Programme?
Tshumisano is a Venda word meaning co-operation or partnership. The Tshumisano programme is an initiative of the DST, which fosters Technology Stations to provide access to the expertise of Technikons.
The DST has identified technological innovation and related skills upgrading as being of vital importance to the competitiveness of South African SMMEs. South Africa's Technikons possess considerable potential and can play a critical role in stimulating innovation and improving competitiveness.
In line with this, the Technology Stations Programme (TSP) was developed by the DST to strengthen and accelerate the interaction between Technikons and these enterprises. Technology Stations plays a major role in identifying the specific needs in selected sectors and provide adequate technology solutions based on the Technikons' expertise.
Does the DST interact with schools?
There are a number of DST projects and activities which involve schools. Chief among these is the annual National Science Week. During National Science Week learners, teachers and parents can get more information on science and technology through interactive programmes, science shows and career exhibitions held at major centres and science centres throughout the country.
For more information, please contact:Isaac Ramovha
Director: Science Promotion
Tel : +2712 843 6879
or email : Isaac.Ramovha@dst.gov.za
Where can I get information brochures relating to science and technology issues?
Contact Ms Zama Mthethwa
+27 12 843 6781
or email: zama.mthethwa@dst.gov.za
Name |
Position |
Phone |
Dr Phil Mjwara |
Director-General |
+27 12 843 6300 |
Ms Gugulethu Zwane |
Deputy Director-General: Institutional Planning and Support |
+27 12 843 6408 |
Ms Nombuyiselo Mokoena |
Deputy Director-General: Corporate Services |
+27 12 843 6550 |
Dr R Maserumule |
Acting Deputy Director-General: Technology Innovation |
+27 12 843 6506 |
Mr Daan du Toit |
Deputy Director-General: International Cooperation and Resources |
+27 12 843 6350 |
Mr Imraan Patel |
Deputy Director-General: Research Development and Support |
+27 12 843 6833 |
Dr Mmboneni Muofhe |
Deputy Director-General: Socio-economic Innovation Partnerships |
+27 12 843 6821 |
Robert Shaku |
Acting Chief Financial Officer |
+27 12 843 6684 |
Mr Matile Malimabe |
Chief Information Officer |
+27 12 843 6547 |
Ms Buhle Khumalo |
Chief Director: Science Communication |
+27 12 843 6790 |
Ms Duduzile Maqampa |
Acting Chief Director: Human Resources |
+27 12 843 6409 |
Please feel free to contact us using our contact data or the form below:
Physical address | Department of Science and Innovation |
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Building No. 53 (CSIR South Gate Entrance) | |
Meiring Naudé Road | |
Brummeria | |
Pretoria | |
Postal address | Private Bag X894 |
Pretoria | |
0001 | |
Coordinates | -25.756629, 28.276592 |
Operating Hours | 08:00 - 16:00 (Monday to Friday) |
Fax number | +27 12 349 1030 |
Phone | +27 12 843 6300 |
Website | www.dst.gov.za |
webmaster@dst.gov.za |
Minister
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Dr Blade Nzimande Contact Details: _____________________ PA to the Minister Ms Esther Rammutla Tel.: +27 12 843 6485 Email:Esther.Rammutla@dst.gov.za _____________________ |
Chief of Staff Ms Mokgadi Tena Tel.: +27 12 843 6362 Email.: Tena.M@dhet.gov.za _____________________ Media Liaison Officer Mr Ishmael Mnisi Tel.:+27 12 843 6809 Email.:Ishmael.Mnisi@dst.gov.za _____________________ Parliamentary Liaison Ms Siphokazi Shoba Tel.: Cel: Email.:Siphokazi.Shoba@dst.gov.za _____________________ Administrative Secretary Ms Mmathapelo Sako Tel.:+27 12 843 6717 Email.: Mmathapelo.Sako@dst.gov.za
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Deputy Minister
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Mr Buti Manamela Contact Details: _____________________ Personal Assistant Ms. Motshedisi Letuka T: +27 12 312 6339 Email: Letuka.M@dhet.gov.za _______________________
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Mr Bayanda Mzoneli WhatsApp: 0828888613 Email: mzoneli.bq@dhet.gov.za _____________________ Administration Secretary Mrs. Christine Keabaitse Mashaba Tel: 012 312 5050 Email: Mashaba.CK @dhet.gov.za _____________________ Parliamentary Liaison Officer Mr Steve Mamphekgo Tel: 0845419945 Email: mamphekgo.s@dhet.gov.za
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Director General
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Office Manager
Ms Lisbeth Mlangeni Tel.: 012 843 6823 Email: Lisbeth.Mlangeni@dst.gov.za
_____________________ |
Personal Assistant
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Deputy Director General
Ms Gugulethu Zwane |
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Office Manager Personal Assistant
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Ms Nombuyiselo Mokoena |
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Office Manager _____________________ Personal Assistant Ms Mogale Mahlaela Tel.: 012 843 6550 Email: Mogale.Mahlaela@dst.gov.za
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_____________________________________________________________________________________ |
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Acting Dr R Maserumule |
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Office Manager Ms Ria Vogel Tel.: 012 843 6506 Email: Ria.Vogel@dst.gov.za _____________________ Personal Assistant
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Mr Daan du Toit |
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Office Manager Ms Lisa du Toit Tel. 012 843 6354 Email: Lisa.Dutoit@dst.gov.za
Personal Assistant
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Mr Imraan Patel |
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Office Manager Ms Matilda Nyalungu Tel.: 012 843 6406 Email: Matilda.Nyalungu@dst.gov.za _____________________ Personal Assistant Ms Felicity Williams |
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Dr Mmboneni Muofhe |
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Office Manager Ms Khuliso Tharage Tel.: 012 843 6821 Email: Buliswa.Omodona@dst.gov.za
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