South Africa’s repute globally is a key precedence for the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. This might be maintained and safeguarded, the Portfolio Committee on Science and Technology heard when it acquired a briefing from the division on the progress in implementing the 2022–2032 STI Decadal Plan and the outcomes of all of the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) conferences on science, know-how and innovation (STI) to date and the 2024 STI Presidential Plenary.
The division’s deputy Director-General, Mr Daan Du Toit, famous that the division has recognized the nation’s standing as a companion throughout these turbulent instances as a danger. “There are various interventions we looking to continue to maintain a diverse portfolio with the Global North, Global South and a focus on African partners. It is very important to safeguard South Africa’s reputation and that means we must honour our international commitments, show leadership and coinvest on international partnerships,” he stated.
The division’s Director-General and the deputies and usually invited to attend worldwide engagements, which, he stated, is an affirmation that South Africa continues to be seen as a dependable and influential companion internationally.
Mr du Toit was a part of the departmental delegation that was in Parliament to temporary the committee on the Decadal Plan on Science, Technology and Innovation analysis through the interval 2022–2032. The delegation was led by Minister Dr Blade Nzimande.
Committee members requested questions on numerous present initiatives, together with analysis on foot and mouth illness, the price and manufacturing of vaccines, local weather change and sustainable human settlements.
The performing committee Chairperson, Ms Thembeka Mchunu, had earlier stated the committee was eager to be briefed on updates with the Decadal Plan. “We are expected to be there as the committee as the implementation continued.”
The committee additionally heard that Dr Nzimande supported the Special Investigative Unit’s investigation into the manufacturing of prescribed drugs, which he stated is in keeping with the Presidential proclamation 304 of 2025.
Members vowed to help and inspire for elevated funds in keeping with the implementation of the Decadal Plans targets.
Sibongile Maputi
19 March 2026