The Minister of Science and Technology, Naledi Pandor, will release the results of the latest survey on research and experimental development (R&D) spending in the country at a media briefing on 12 April 2017.

Expenditure on R&D is a key driver of economic growth, and the survey maps trends in R&D investment.

For the first time, evidence about the growth of technology transfer and commercialisation activities at universities and science councils will be shared, drawing on the Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer baseline survey, which covers the period from 2008 to 2014.

The launch will be followed by a policy round-table discussion focusing on whether or not South Africa is using its knowledge base to increase economic efficiency.  It will be attended by key stakeholders from government, the private sector, higher education, science councils and the research community.

Members of the media are invited as follows:

Date:      Wednesday, 12 April 2017
Time:     09:30 for 10:00
Venue:   Innovation Hub, Allan Cormack Street, Pretoria

NB: There will be a video link to the Human Sciences Research Council offices in Cape Town (116-118 Merchant House, Buitengracht Street).

For media confirmation, please contact David Mandaha at 072 126 8910 or Veronica Mohapeloa at 082 882 3818

Enquiries: Lunga Ngqengelele Ministerial Spokesperson 012 843 6799
082 566 0446