Dept of Science, Technology and Innovation renamed to highlight tech focus

The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, has welcomed the renaming of the Department, as proclaimed in Government Gazette No. 51283 on 27 September 2024.

The new name, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, follows the splitting of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation into the Ministry of Higher Education and Training and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation under the 7th administration.

“The Department's name has undergone several changes in the past years.  In 2021, government renamed what was then the Department of Science and Technology, making it the "Department of Science and Innovation". This was to put greater emphasis on the need for the Department to drive innovation through its work.”

The most recent name incorporates all the elements of the Department's mandate to lead enhanced productivity, economic growth and societal development through science, technology and innovation (STI). 

“Putting "technology" back into the name is an acknowledgement of the role that technological advancements play in driving scientific progress, economic growth and societal development,” said the Minister.

The Department retains its strategic focus on promoting innovation through cutting-edge technologies, fostering a digitally empowered society, and enhancing South Africa's competitiveness on the global stage.

Its priorities include climate change and environmental sustainability, human resource development, and addressing poverty and inequality.

Issued by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation.

For more information, please contact Veronica Mohapeloa at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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