This webinar examines the evolving nature of research and innovation policy and associated outcomes in South Africa. It critiques research and innovation policy starting at the micro level of the firm, through to the aggregate level of STI indicators. Four case studies, each within their own sectoral. The Case studies elicit the nature and origins of four innovations locating these in their respective sectoral systems  according to the Malerba (2002) formulation. SSIs advance the much earlier work of Marshall (Rosenthal and Strange, 2004) with a more nuanced understanding of innovation, focusing on specific sectors, incorporating actors beyond the firm, the dynamics and trajectories of knowledge flows and institutions in shaping innovation processes. Each case starts with a concise PESTE analysis followed with bibliometric analysis and publication co-authorship, and patent statistics including patent awards in multiple jurisdictions, the use of government incentives and the management of intellectual property.  All cases demonstrate high levels of path dependence on the part of one or more of the primary actors. Selection bias acknowledged, none of the cases arises from the direct intents of STI policy. The cases speak to industry needs rather than government push. Institutions, including rules, norms, and infrastructure, play a crucial role in shaping innovation patterns within each sector.

Keynote Speaker

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Professor Michael Kahn is a policy analyst and evaluator in the fields of research and innovation. He has been advisor to the Ministers of Education, and Science and Technology, a Chief Director in the Gauteng Provincial Government, analyst in the Centre for Education Policy Development, Professor of science education in Botswana and South Africa, Executive Director of the Human Sciences Research Council and is now Research Fellow in the Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology at Stellenbosch University. He is Extraordinary Professor at the University of the Western Cape, and Professor of Practice of the University of Johannesburg.

Michael is skilled in policy analysis, strategic planning, measurement, monitoring and evaluation, foresight and facilitation. His training draws on engineering, physics and education policy, including a PhD in Theoretical Physics, MA in Education Policy, Planning and Management and BSc (Honours). He consults to governments, multilateral agencies and the donor community.