The Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has appointed Hina Patel to head the Meraka Institute.
Patel replaces Laurens Cloete, who is now group executive for operations at the CSIR.
The Meraka Institute is an operating unit of the CSIR. It focuses its research and development activities in information and communication technologies. With over 250 staff and students, Meraka is one of the largest groups in SA dedicated to ICT research, it says.
"I joined the CSIR in 1996 on graduation in Computer Science from the University of London's Royal Holloway College. Since then, I have played a number of leadership roles at CSIR Meraka and on national strategic initiatives such as the National Accessibility Portal," she says.
"In my previous role as strategic research manager, I led the partnership with the Department of Science and Technology to develop a 10-year National ICT R&D and Innovation Roadmap, which was approved by Cabinet in 2013."
She explains this roadmap outlines specific strategic plans to guide SA's investment in ICT research, development and innovation (RDI) over the next decade.
The world's future is digital, says Patel, adding the CSIR Meraka Institute's mission in this evolving world is to enable SA to attain digital advantage, a term used to describe a desired state in which significant social, economic and competitive value is derived through the production and use of ICT.
"The intent is to truly realise the benefits of ICT in ways that go beyond concepts like bridging or narrowing the digital divide. The ICT RDI roadmap sets out a path to attain this desired state by leveraging advances in ICT research, development and innovation, with specific focus on addressing socio-economic challenges. It was developed with input from industry, government and the research community," says Patel.
According to Patel, various studies have indicated positive links between R&D and economic growth.
Like electricity, she says, ICT is now an intrinsic part of everyday life. "It is also one of the most promising areas in which to focus investment and activity research, development and deployment.
"ICT is a powerful tool in addressing development issues in areas like education, healthcare and agriculture; it is essential in helping us to manage assets and resources in natural and man-made environments, such as cities. It enables modern research methods in key areas such as biosciences, materials science and space. And in doing so, it creates a wealth of opportunity for new ventures and jobs."
Patel notes, while South Africans have produced a number of ICT innovations, far greater levels of investment in ICT R&D are required if the country is to compete successfully internationally.
"Leading nations invest up to 1.85% of GDP in ICT R&D, which is substantially higher than is currently the case in SA," she concludes.
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