Honourable House Chairperson, The ACDP notes the Report of the Portfolio Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation on the performance of the Department for the 2024/25 financial year.
We acknowledge the Department’s progress in expanding research infrastructure and supporting innovation hubs, as highlighted in the Annual Report, where R1.2 billion was allocated to research and development programmes. However, the Auditor-General again flagged weaknesses in project monitoring and irregular expenditure of some R87 million which occurs while young researchers voice frustration at limited bursary opportunities and administrative bottlenecks.
The Committee rightly noted that South Africa’s investment in research and development at 0.62% remains below the 1% of GDP target set in the National Development Plan. It is the view of the ACDP that this underinvestment is an impediment to economic growth. Furthermore, we call for the implementation of consequence management towards those responsible for delays in funding approvals which have stalled several university-industry partnerships in research and development.
The ACDP calls for stronger financial discipline, increased research and development, transparent monitoring, and the prioritisation of youth innovation where science and technology is harnessed, not only for economic growth, but to restore opportunity, hope and dignity to our young people.
The ACDP will support this report.
I thank you.
