Governance and science take centre stage at the NRF as speakers stress that innovation does not happen in isolation

Opportunity Details

How can countries strengthen their research and innovation systems to tackle complex societal challenges and create lasting opportunities for future generations? That question was at the heart of the conversation when policymakers, academic leaders, researchers, innovation practitioners and students gathered at the National Research Foundation (NRF) in Pretoria on 9 October.

They had come together for the Seminar on the Governance of China and the 21st International Conference on Science, Engineering, Technology and Management of Innovation (SETMI), a platform for knowledge exchange and dialogue on how governance, science, technology and innovation can contribute to sustainable development and economic growth.

Students at the table

Among those in the room were students from the University of Johannesburg, University of Pretoria, University of South Africa, Tshwane University of Technology and University of the Witwatersrand, who engaged alongside policymakers, academics and researchers. Their participation reinforced the importance of nurturing future leaders in science, research and innovation through exposure to global perspectives and knowledge exchange, while keeping in mind the local contexts in which solutions must be applicable.

Voices from government, diplomacy and academia

The programme featured a distinguished line-up of speakers: Mr Cedric Frolick, Chairperson of National Assembly Committees of the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa; Dr Jixian Zhao, Minister Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in South Africa; Professor Fulufhelo Netswera, Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Venda; and Professor Arthur Mutambara, Executive Director of the Institute for the Future of Knowledge at the University of Johannesburg.

Their presentations offered valuable insights into the critical role of governance, leadership, science, technology and international collaboration in driving innovation-led growth and national development.

A message that cut across the day

One message echoed throughout the discussions: innovation does not happen in isolation. It requires visionary leadership, supportive policies, capable institutions, skilled human capital and long-term investment.

Speakers emphasised that effective governance creates the conditions in which research and innovation can thrive, enabling countries to respond more effectively to socio-economic challenges while fostering inclusive and sustainable development. Other benefits include stronger research capacity, technology transfer and innovation-driven growth.

The discussions also highlighted the growing importance of international collaboration. In an increasingly interconnected world, countries benefit from sharing knowledge, expertise, technologies and best practices.

Emerging technologies in focus

Particular attention was given to the opportunities presented by emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, advanced data systems, digital platforms and smart infrastructure. These technologies are transforming the way governments, industries and research institutions operate, while creating new opportunities to improve productivity, strengthen evidence-based decision-making and enhance service delivery.

What it means for South Africa’s research community

For the NRF and the broader South African research community, the seminar reinforced the importance of advancing research excellence, developing future skills and nurturing innovation. It also underlined the need to ensure that research outcomes translate into meaningful social and economic benefits.

Lessons brought home from China

The event also gave Ms Nocawe Ndayi, a Research Management Specialist in the Strategic Science Missions Unit at the NRF, the opportunity to share lessons from her participation in the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System and Railway Transport Seminars in China (2025–2026).

Her reflections highlighted the importance of learning from international best practices while adapting solutions to South Africa’s unique developmental context. She emphasised that science, technology and innovation can play a pivotal role in strengthening infrastructure development, improving public service delivery, supporting economic growth and enhancing the quality of life of vulnerable and underserved communities.

Looking ahead

As South Africa continues to pursue inclusive and sustainable development, the insights shared at the seminar offer valuable perspectives on how science, technology and innovation can be leveraged to address national priorities, strengthen global partnerships and create lasting societal impact.