South African Science and Technology Key Facts and Figures 2002

This publication gives easy access to selected key information about the science and technology (S&T) system of South Africa. It summarises policy and strategic issues, and offers data on selected S&T indicators. Such facts and figures, indispensable for monitoring and evaluating the effects of S&T policy on competitiveness and transformation, need regular updating.
South Africa’s S&T system has changed so dramatically over the past six years, moreover, that statistical updates have in certain instances fallen behind, and
there is currently no single source of reference containing reliable up-to-date information.
The National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI) and the Branch: Science and Technology of the Department of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology (DACST) have therefore published South African Science and Technology: Key Facts and Figures 2002 as a short-term resource for policy makers, analysts, students, and other interested parties.
Further current projects that should, in the medium to long term, significantly improve the availability of information about South Africa’s S&T include:
• a (Frascati-guided) research and development (R&D) survey (commissioned by DACST)
• an (Oslo-type) innovation survey (University of Pretoria)
• an S&T profile of South Africa (NACI and the Foundation for Education, Science and Technology (FEST)).