Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions about the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, our programmes, funding opportunities, and more.
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Scientific discoveries and the associated development of new technologies are key long-term drivers of economic growth and development. Innovation, technology mastery and the diffusion of knowledge and new products and services into markets are key elements in this growth and result in sustainable improvements in the quality of life of all South Africans.
The White Paper on Science and Technology (1996) created the policy framework for the then Department of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology (DACST) to establish key enabling policies and strategies to inform the strategic development of science and technology in South Africa.
In 2002 Cabinet approved the National Research and Development Strategy as the basis for the National System of Innovation (NSI). The National R&D Strategy requires performance and responses in three key areas: 1) enhanced innovation; 2) providing science, engineering and technology (SET) human resources and transformation; and, 3) creating an effective government S&T system.
It is in this context that the DSI has been established as a separate department to ensure that there is greater coordination, integration as well as better management of all government funded science and technology institutions and to provide a holistic overview of public expenditure on science and technology.
No, however, the National Research Foundation (NRF), which is one of DSI's key science councils, is offering bursaries, through the Technology and Human Resources for Industry Programme (THRIP). For more information please visit: www.nrf.ac.za
While the DSI does not offer this type of funding directly to applicants, there are a number of funding mechanisms available to research and inventions. For more information please see the following contact details of a number of fund managers. For more information please visit: www.nrf.ac.za
The DSI does not directly fund emerging SMMEs. However, through our entities and partners, there are various funding mechanisms available:
- Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) - provides funding for technology-based innovations
- National Research Foundation (NRF) - offers various funding instruments
- Innovation Bridge - connects innovators with funding opportunities
The Science and Youth Programme offers more information to youth in particular about science related issues and careers. Career opportunities in science and technology span across various fields including research, engineering, biotechnology, information technology, data science, environmental science, and many more. Visit the DSI National Youth Service page or contact our offices for more information on SET careers.
The NYS is a government initiative that aims to develop South Africa's young people by engaging them in public service. The programme places volunteers between 18 and 35 in areas of need for no more than two years, allowing them to acquire skills and experience while making a contribution to society. The government sees the NYS as a tool to strengthen service delivery, promote nation-building, foster social cohesion and provide young people with the skills they need to participate in economic activities.
The Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) has designed an NYS programme to support the implementation of its Youth into Science Strategy. This strategy is aimed at identifying young people with talent in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and nurturing this talent.
The implementing agency for the DSI's NYS programme is the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF). It places unemployed science, technology, engineering and mathematics graduates who volunteer their services at various institutions (mostly science centres and expos, but also institutions like the South African Mathematics Foundation), for a maximum of two years.
Like learnerships and internships, the NYS offers young people the chance of structured learning and personal development, preparing them for opportunities to further their studies, obtain formal employment or venture into self-employment. However, it is different from learnerships and internships because it emphasises community service and civic duty, with volunteers rendering service to communities for a small stipend rather than a salary.
- South Africa's science, technology and innovation system
- The communities served by the programme
- The young people volunteering their services
The programme is a collaboration between the DSI and various partners. The following types of institutions host volunteers:
- Science Education Resource Centres across provinces
- Eskom Expo for Young Scientists
- University Science Centres
- South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA)
- National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF)
- Various regional science centres nationwide
To qualify for consideration in the programme you need to be unemployed and have a national diploma or a degree (from a BSc to a PhD) in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.
No, but you will get a small monthly stipend to cover your expenses.
At the moment the DSI NYS is open only to unemployed graduates, because volunteers are expected to be on duty during normal working hours. However, the programme may be opened to students at a later stage if institutions are able to host them, as participating in the NYS would give students workplace skills and experience.
Yes, you can be placed at any institution across South Africa, depending on availability and the needs of the programme. However, priority is often given to placing volunteers in their home provinces to minimize relocation costs.
Applications for the DSI NYS programme are handled by the National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF). Visit their website or contact the DSI directly for more information on current application periods and requirements.
The Tshumisano Programme is a DSI initiative that supports technology transfer and innovation at universities of technology. It aims to bridge the gap between research and commercialization by providing support for technology stations and other innovation support mechanisms at these institutions.
Yes, the DSI has various programmes aimed at promoting science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education in schools. These include support for science centres, the Eskom Expo for Young Scientists, and various outreach programmes coordinated through SAASTA (South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement).
Information brochures and publications are available through the DSI Resource Centre. You can also visit our website's Resource Centre section or contact our offices directly to request specific publications. Many of our publications are available for download in PDF format.
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