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Role in the National System
of Innovation (NSI)
The CSIR conducts research across
the R&D value chain, a role that
distinguishes it from higher education
institutions (HEIs) and private sector
R&D players (see Figure 1). The CSIR
conducts a degree of basic research,
but focuses mainly on directed
research, development and technology
or knowledge transfer for commercial
or social benefit.
The CSIR strategy is guided by the
strategic goals established in 2005.
Key principles are the need to elevate
the scientific capabilities of the
organisation, enhance human capital
development and focus on innovation.
This requires an appropriate balance
between strategic basic and applied
research; technology development;
and technology transfer and
implementation, as depicted in Figure
1. At the same time, the excellent
business and other organisational
capabilities are to be maintained and
enhanced.
The international strategic review of
the CSIR in 2009 continues to guide
organisational endeavours. The review
confirmed the existing CSIR strategic
goals, highlighting the need to:
• Achieve more focus in our
research;
• Ensure increased impact of
our work and improve the
communication about impact;
• Continue with the development
of significant numbers of highlyskilled
people;
• Consider more partnering with the
private sector and increase
Contract R&D income from
this sector and international
funding sources; and
• Safeguard financial sustainability
and our good corporate
governance record.
Responding to national
imperatives
The CSIR’s research agenda is
influenced by national priorities, as
identified by government, the private
sector and society. Government
priorities are defined by the various
national departments and CSIR units
keep in close touch with departments
to support the development and
implementation of policy. The Medium
Term Strategic Framework (MTSF) for
2009 to 2014 identified strategic
priorities for South Africa (see Table 1).
Table 1: CSIR relevance to South African strategic priorities
Priority MTSF National priorities Level of CSIR
relevance to
the priority
1 Speeding up growth and transforming the economy to create decent work and sustainable livelihoods High
2 Massive programme to build economic and social infrastructure High
3 Comprehensive rural development strategy linked to land and agrarian reform and food security Medium
4 Strengthen the skills and human resource base High
5 Improve the health profile of all South Africans Medium
6 Intensify the fight against crime and corruption Low
7 Build cohesive, caring and sustainable communities Low
8 Pursuing African advancement and enhanced international cooperation Medium
9 Sustainable resource management and use High
10 Building a developmental state including improvement of public services and strengthening
democratic institutions
Low-Medium
In January 2010, cabinet identified 12 outcomes that will reflect progress in achieving national priorities, and which
form the basis for ministerial performance agreements and direct departmental and interdepartmental activities. The CSIR
contributes extensively to the attainment of 11 of the outcomes in line with its role in the NSI, and in collaboration with
implementing partners such as line departments, state-owned enterprises and the private sector.
109 EXECUTIVE REPORT