In a bold move blending diplomacy and innovation, South Africa has announced a new programme to boost cooperation in science, technology and innovation (STI) with Palestine.
The initiative, announced by Professor Blade Nzimande, Minister of Science and Innovation, aims to support and rebuild Palestine’s research capabilities amidst ongoing conflict.
South Africa x Palestine innovation
Nzimande, speaking during his 2024/25 Budget Vote, emphasised the programme’s focus on “safeguarding, rebuilding, and developing Palestine’s research and innovation capacities and infrastructure.”
This collaboration isn’t starting from scratch – it builds on a history of joint efforts between the two nations.
Previous collaborations have included joint research projects, seed funding for knowledge networks, and exchange programmes hosting Palestinian scholars and students in South Africa.
Science system development
The country has also shared its policy experience in science system development with Palestine.
“This new programme will be implemented by our entity the NRF [National Research Foundation] and will be funded from the department’s existing budget for international cooperation,” Nzimande told Members of Parliament.
The initiative aligns with the Department of Science and Innovation’s strategic goal of using science diplomacy to foster human solidarity and social justice, while supporting South Africa’s foreign policy objectives.
Despite facing budget cuts – with the department’s allocation adjusted to R10.562 billion from R10.874 billion in 2023/24 – Nzimande remained upbeat about South Africa’s scientific progress.
Previous achievements
He highlighted several achievements from the previous administration that have set the stage for future developments:
- Vaccine manufacturing: A new strategy promotes domestic design, development, and production of vaccines, targeting diseases like Rift Valley fever, HPV, and hepatitis B.
- Hydrogen economy: The department is spearheading innovations in green hydrogen as an alternative energy source, with R53 million invested to support women-led SMMEs in this sector.
- Cannabis industrialisation: A national solar research facility was established to support technology transfer for the Cannabis Industrialisation Masterplan.
- Astronomy advancements: South Africa continues to lead in the construction of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project, set to become the world’s largest radio telescope array.
- Agricultural support: In 2023/24, the department provided technology development support to 1,480 black emerging farmers.
Looking ahead, Nzimande stressed the department’s commitment to sustainable development across various sectors. “STI is also about transforming the socio-economic conditions of working-class communities in townships and rural areas,” he noted.
Earth Observation Data Centre
The minister also touched on plans to establish an Earth Observation Data Centre, providing crucial tools for government decision-making in areas like disaster management, food security, and climate change.
Ambitious as these plans are, they come with challenges.
The department aims to increase gross expenditure on research and development (GERD) to 1.5% of GDP by 2030/31, a target that will require significant effort and investment.
Nzimande concluded his address on a hopeful note: “Our challenges notwithstanding, we present this budget as our commitment to transform our National System of Innovation and using science, technology, and innovation to impact the lives of our people in a transformative way.”
As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy, this new collaboration with Palestine stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to using science and technology not just for domestic progress, but as a tool for international cooperation and support.
