Documents
The 2019 STI White Paper – The 2019 White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation is a government policy approved by Cabinet in March 2019 that replaces the earlier 1996 White Paper on Science and Technology. It sets the long-term vision and policy direction for South Africa’s National System of Innovation (NSI) — the ecosystem of institutions, businesses, universities, research bodies and government working together on STI.
STI Business Forum Articles
Ekurhuleni’s moment: Why a University of Applied Science cannot wait
We are proud to highlight a thought-leadership article by Tilson Mphathi Manyoni, Chairperson of the STI Business Forum, published in Mail & Guardian.
In “Ekurhuleni’s moment: Why a University of Applied Science cannot wait”, he calls for the establishment of a University of Applied Science and Innovation in Ekurhuleni — the only metropolitan municipality in South Africa without a university despite its strong industrial base.
He argues that the institution would bridge education and industry, boost applied research and innovation, and drive skills development and inclusive economic growth.
The Ekurhuleni University: An idea whose time has come
We’re pleased to share a significant article by our Head of Policy, recently published through our media partner, Mail & Guardian.
This contribution further amplifies the Forum’s voice in driving important discussions at the intersection of science, technology, and innovation.
Congratulations to our Head of Policy on this outstanding achievement
University of Applied Science and Innovation: A critical chapter for South Africa’s Youth
The establishment of a University of Applied Science and Innovation marks a transformative step in reshaping South Africa’s higher education landscape and unlocking meaningful opportunities for the nation’s youth. By prioritizing practical skills, industry collaboration, and innovation-driven learning, this institution model bridges the persistent gap between academic knowledge and real-world application. It equips young people not only with qualifications, but with the competencies required to thrive in a rapidly evolving, technology-led economy. As South Africa continues to confront challenges such as youth unemployment and skills mismatches, this forward-thinking approach positions education as a powerful catalyst for inclusive growth, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development—placing the country’s youth at the forefront of its future success.