The history of research and experimental development measurement in South Africa and some current perspectives

WE PROVIDE AN OVERVIEW OF THE history of research and development (R&D) surveys in South Africa and give some results from the 2001/02 R&D survey. Certain trends are analysed, mainly in relation to the methodologically comparable 1991/92 R&D survey; the results of previous surveys are also referred to. Various issues related to R&D and capacity development in South Africa are discussed against a background of international trends, thus offering some insight into particular issues that affect R&D performance in this country. The history of the R&D survey shows that its findings are directly affected by the type of agency undertaking the survey and the methods used. South African R&D expenditure is increasing, but not fast enough to keep pace with economic growth or to meet the target of 1% of gross domestic product set by the Department of Science and Technology. There appears to be a static, and possibly shrinking, pool of R&D personnel, particularly researchers, which is a worrying development. Trends in R&D output data are also examined. We conclude with a discussion of R&D funding and tax policy and suggest that the state may have to adopt a more interventionist role if the 1% target of GDP for R&D is to be met.