On 22 October 2024, the CSIR had the immense privilege of hosting the Honourable Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, alongside Deputy Minister Nomalungelo Gina and Acting Director-General Gugulethu Zwane, at our CSIR Scientia Campus. This visit marked a pivotal moment for the organisation, as it offered a unique platform for these key leaders to witness first-hand the groundbreaking work that continues to position the CSIR as a leader in driving science, technology and innovation for societal and economic progress in South Africa.

The day commenced with a warm welcome by CSIR Board Chairperson, Vuyani Jarana, who set the stage for a comprehensive showcase of the organisation’s diverse projects. Following his opening address, Vuyani handed over to Dr Thulani Dlamini, CEO of the CSIR, for an insightful overview of the organisation’s initiatives. Dr Dlamini began by recalling a past challenge set by the Minister to expand the CSIR’s work with Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and proudly highlighted the progress made, including collaborations with the merSETA, LGSETA, EWSETA, SASSETA, MICT-SETA and CHIETA, in various human capital development programmes.

Dr Dlamini also emphasised the transformative role of the CSIR’s partnerships with small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), showcasing projects like the fire detection drone project with Autonosky and the CSIR’s Entrepreneurship Development Programme. “We received an overwhelming number of applications for this programme,” Dr Dlamini noted, “which underscores the urgent need for skills development in our country.”

Celebrating eight decades of innovation

Looking ahead, Dr Dlamini also reflected on the CSIR’s upcoming 80th anniversary in 2025, which will be a celebration of eight decades of pioneering innovation across society, government and industry. He reiterated the importance of collaboration in achieving the organisation’s mission: “Collaboration is at the heart of what we do at the CSIR. Without it, we simply wouldn’t be able to achieve our goals.”

Minister’s reflections and call to action

In response to Dr Dlamini’s presentation, Minister Nzimande shared his thoughts, affirming the crucial role of CSIR in South Africa’s development. “We understand the importance of the CSIR to our country’s growth, but we don’t champion it enough,” the Minister stated. “I’m here to ensure that I can learn about all the incredible work you’re doing and become a true advocate for the CSIR.”

Minister Nzimande further emphasised the need to showcase the contributions of science to South Africa’s development and called for greater engagement with stakeholders, starting with the government. He also highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships with industry, adding that building local capabilities is critical for sustainable national development.

One of the key issues raised by the Minister was the importance of cybersecurity, which he described as essential to safeguarding the nation’s future. He acknowledged the vital work the CSIR is doing in this area.

A tour of groundbreaking innovation

The Minister and his delegation participated in in-depth exhibitions of the CSIR’s innovative projects, including the Precision Agriculture Information System, Umbiflow for maternal health, Precision Medicine in health and our pioneering Text-to-Speech technology, Qfrency. They also explored key research, development and innovation facilities, including the Information and Cyber Security Centre, the Biomanufacturing Industry Development Centre and the Synthetic Aperture Radar.

As the visit concluded, the Minister reaffirmed their commitment to championing the CSIR’s work. The engagement underscored the critical role of science, technology and innovation in shaping the future of South Africa.

For the CSIR, this visit was not just a recognition of the transformative work being done but also a reaffirmation of our mission to pioneer new frontiers in science and technology, making a real, lasting impact on society, industry and government as we look forward to our 80th year of excellence.