About STI Business Forum
“We cannot change the past. We can shape the future.“
The STI Business Forum is envisioned as a Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) dedicated to promoting inclusive urban economic development through Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), as well as industrial innovation.
Background
In 2019, the South African Government (Cabinet) approved the adoption of the White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation (STI). This White Paper, which is based on an extensive review of the National System of Innovation (NSI), sets the long-term policy direction for the South African government to ensure a growing role for STI in a more prosperous and inclusive society.
Formation of the STI Business Forum
The STI Business Forum was formed as a response to three transformative developments that could reshape and re-position the South African Science, Technology and Innovation ecosystem, with the original focus on the City of Ekurhuleni:
- On 29 May 2024, the outcome of South Africa’s national elections ushered in a new era in the country’s political landscape, resulting in the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU).
- On 23 August 2024, President of South Africa hosted a Presidential Imbizo at Tsakane Stadium in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng. The theme of the Imbizo was “Let’s Grow South Africa Together” while the sub-theme was “Leave No One Behind”. At this Imbizo, the President announced the construction of the Ekurhuleni University of Applied Science and Innovation as one of the priorities for the seventh (7th) Administration, since Ekurhuleni is the only metro without a university.
- On 13 March 2025, at the National Transformation Summit, a call was made to support the establishment of the Ekurhuleni University of Applied Science and Innovation.
- The Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Business Forum Founding Statement.