South Africa highlights science and innovation priorities in 2026/27 Budget Vote
Date: 2026-05-15
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The Deputy Minister of
Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina has outlined the
government’s priorities for science and innovation as the Department of
Science, Technology and Innovation tabled its 2026/27 Budget Vote in Parliament
alongside Minister Blade Nzimande.
The department has been
allocated R10.4 billion to support investments in research, advanced
technologies, skills development and innovation aimed at driving economic
growth and social development.
According to the Deputy
Minister, the Budget Vote reflects government’s commitment to positioning
science, technology and innovation at the centre of governance, education,
industry and society as part of efforts to build a more inclusive national
innovation system.
She noted that the
allocation will support continued implementation of the Decadal Plan for
Science, Technology and Innovation (2022–2032), which focuses on several
priority areas including artificial intelligence, green hydrogen and clean
energy, vaccine manufacturing, digital economy development, climate resilience,
indigenous knowledge systems, sovereign space capability and human capital
development.
The department also
highlighted ongoing engagement activities with learners, stakeholders and the
public, including educational exhibitions and an artificial intelligence
lecture delivered by computer scientist Vukosi Marivate.
Officials stated that
science, technology and innovation remain central to improving quality of life,
expanding economic opportunities and strengthening South Africa’s global
competitiveness.
