Policy Research Study to Determine the Adoption and Integration of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) into National Government Policies and Planning Frameworks

The report presents findings from phase 2 of a study conducted by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) to assess the integration of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) into government policies and frameworks. Building on phase 1 (2022), which covered 12 national departments, this phase examined the remaining 26 national departments/public entities through content analysis, surveys, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. The findings reveal that several departments such as Defence, Higher Education and Training, Small Business Development, and others show a stronger inclination towards STI, frequently referencing research, innovation, and technology in their policies. However, only three departments -the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Department of Small Business Development, and the South African Revenue Service explicitly reported integrating STI frameworks like the 2019 White Paper and Decadal Plan.

While most departments acknowledge the importance of STI and believe their infrastructure can accommodate it, a major challenge is the lack of distinct STI budget lines, with the DSI being the only department allocating dedicated STI funding. As a result, STI-related activities are often embedded within broader departmental budgets, complicating tracking and prioritisation. Nevertheless, 10 of the 26 departments in this phase and 10 from phase 1 support STI initiatives, including research, innovation projects, and technological advancements within their sectors.

Access pase 1 report here.

Abstract based on original source.