The South African Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) has unveiled its initiatives and investments in the 2023/24 budget vote. With a focus on science, technology, and innovation, the department aims to overcome the country’s challenges and promote growth through various projects and programs. Keep reading to learn more about the DSI’s key initiatives.
Innovation Fund to Support Early-Stage Technology-Based Firms
The Innovation Fund is one of the DSI’s primary initiatives to support early-stage technology-based companies in South Africa. The government aims to increase its gross domestic investment in research and development to 1.5% of gross domestic product, per the National Development Plan.
Hydrogen Society Roadmap and Hydrogen Valley Programme
The Hydrogen Society Roadmap is a vital project for unlocking the potential of clean energy sources and facilitating a just transition to a carbon-neutral economy. The Hydrogen Valley Programme reflects the commitment to this project by registering it with Infrastructure South Africa under Strategic Integrated Projects.
CoalCO2-X Project to Convert Carbon Dioxide into Fertilizer Salts
The DSI is investing R50 million to support the CoalCO2-X project, which aims to develop technology that converts carbon dioxide from flue gas into fertilizer salts using ammonia. This technology was successfully demonstrated at a cement plant in Limpopo in January 2023, with small, medium, and micro-enterprises establishing partnerships for further technology demonstrations.
Investment in Solar Research and Water Resource Management
The DSI is committed to driving sustainable development through investments in solar research and water resource management. The forthcoming National Solar Research facility will support the development, commercialization, and deployment of solar-based technologies in the power and fuel sectors. The Water RDI Roadmap, currently under review, aims to improve investments for greater impact in the water sector.
Science, Technology, and Innovation Roadmap to Promote a Circular Economy
The DSI is developing a science, technology, and innovation roadmap to promote a circular economy and combat finite natural resources’ pressure. The department also supports Indigenous Knowledge systems and leads the research, development, and innovation pillar of the Cannabis Industrialization Master Plan, which has aided twenty small and medium-sized enterprises with product development.
Health Innovation to Build Sustainable Human Vaccine Manufacturing Capacity in Africa
The DSI is also involved in health innovation, focusing on Medical Device and Diagnostic Innovation, Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Technology Innovation, and supporting health needs through vaccine research, development, and manufacturing strategy. The aim is to ensure a viable local vaccine manufacturing industry and security of supply on the continent by building sustainable human vaccine manufacturing capacity in Africa.
The Department of Science and Innovation’s initiatives and investments aim to leverage science, technology, and innovation as catalysts for South Africa’s economic growth and sustainable development. By addressing environmental challenges and fostering inclusive development, the DSI is contributing significantly to the country’s progress and global competitiveness.
