Higher education, science and technology minister Dr Blade Nzimande has welcomed recent pronouncements about the establishment of a new university dedicated to science and innovation.
During last week’s State of the Nation Address, president Cyril Ramaphosa said government plans to establish a university of science and innovation in the City of Ekurhuleni.
During his speech, the president pointed out Ekurhuleni is the only South African metro that doesn’t have a university.
Ramaphosa’s government is looking to the institution to train young people in high-impact and cutting-edge technological innovation for current and future industries.
Nzimande, who heads up the Department of Science and Innovation), says Ekurhuleni is a major economic hub and seat of a growing Aerotropolis.
“We believe this location, together with fresh new challenges arising from the revolution in science and technology in the third decade of the 21st century, offers an opportunity for a new initiative to provide cutting-edge science and technology innovations across crucial areas, such as data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, blockchain, robotics, hydrogen-powered technologies, including smart transportation and logistics systems.”
The minister indicates he plans to work with relevant government and industry partners, the city and the provincial government, while also drawing on SA’s extensive international network in the BRICS countries, Japan, Europe and elsewhere for innovative partnerships.
Further details on the establishment of the university will be shared during the 2020 departmental budget vote later in the year, according to Nzimande.
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