DSTI & NACI Annual Performance Plan 2026/27

Annual Performance Plans (APPs) of Government Departments and Entities The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation explained that the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and the National Advisory Council on Innovation (NACI) 2026/27 Annual Performance Plan were rooted in the implementation of the Science, Technology and Innovation Decadal Plan and increasing investment in the National System of Innovation, advancing research infrastructure, strengthening innovation commercialisation, expanding international science diplomacy, and improving socio-economic innovation outcomes. Committee members raised concerns about high vacancy rates, weak business investment in research and development, commercialisation bottlenecks, funding constraints, and if innovation interventions were sufficiently linked to job creation, poverty reduction and inclusion. Members questioned the uptake of NACI advice, institutional capacity, legislative reform and the impact of its advisory work. Due to time constraints, the Committee resolved that follow-up questions would continue in a virtual meeting on 28 April 2026.