The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof Blade Nzimande, has expressed commitment to foster business innovation potential in townships in South Africa, to contribute to inclusive economic growth and social change in the country.
Addressing the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in an oral reply on 15 October 2024, the Minister provided details of the measures the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) has put in place to uncover and grow business innovation in the townships.
Minister Nzimande outlined several key initiatives aimed at supporting innovation-driven growth in township communities, with a particular focus on creating opportunities for the youth, women and disadvantaged groups. He emphasised the crucial role of science and technology in driving local economic development and addressing systemic challenges.
Prof. Nzimande highlighted the Technology Acquisition and Deployment Fund, which facilitates the procurement and deployment of locally developed technologies by government departments and municipalities.
One of the fund's successes includes acquiring and deploying local technologies to schools to address critical issues in township schools, including teacher-parent communication and learning outcomes in key subjects like mathematics, science and technology. The initiative also aims to address community safety.
The Grassroots Innovation Programme targets innovators and inventors with limited formal education or resources, connecting individuals with subject matter experts and advanced development facilities. It also offers skills and entrepreneurship training to assist inventors in commercialising their innovations and entering the marketplace.
The Innovation for Local Economic Development initiative is anchored in local systems of innovation, emphasising the role of innovation in driving inclusive development.
Implemented in areas such as KwaMashu and Cato Manor in KwaZulu-Natal, the Living Labs Programme provides creative spaces for young innovators to develop solutions to local economic challenges. These labs, run in partnership with eThekwini Municipality, are key in promoting innovation-driven local economies.
The Minister said these programmes not only foster entrepreneurship and create employment opportunities but also address the social and economic challenges faced by vulnerable communities.
"Science, technology, and innovation are key drivers of inclusive development, and we will continue to support grassroots innovators and local economies to ensure that no one is left behind in South Africa's growth trajectory," said the Minister.
These initiatives form part of a comprehensive government approach to using innovation as a tool for local economic development, improving access to essential services, and enhancing livelihoods. By fostering innovation in townships, the DSI aims to create a more inclusive and dynamic economy, driven by local talent and solutions.
The Department is focusing on removing barriers to innovation for marginalised groups and will soon issue calls for technology transfers to small businesses in various sectors, from information and communication technologies to e-waste management. The objective is to encourage skills transfers, entrepreneurship and sustainable business opportunities for marginalised youth and women.
