Funding research in South Africa

Changes in the funding landscape and support for policy priorities are central concerns for science policy decision-making. This thesis examines science policy decision making in South Africa and how it relates to national priorities. Funding for science policy in South Africa, like in many countries over the last five to ten years, are all linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs are therefore taken as a frame of reference to present a differentiated view of research funding flows by examining various research funders, and funding modes and instruments in South Africa. This study will thus shed light on the extent to which research in South Africa supports national priorities.

Supervisor: Prof J Mouton, CREST, Stellenbosch University