HSRC and NRF Annual Performance Plans 2026/27; with Minister

Annual Performance Plan (APP) of Government Departments & Entities 2026/27 The Portfolio Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation convened a meeting to consider the 2026/27 budget review and annual performance plans (APPs) of the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) as part of its parliamentary oversight responsibilities. The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, emphasised that South Africa's development objectives could not be achieved without sustained and deliberate investment in science, technology and innovation. He highlighted challenges within the national system of innovation, including declining business investment in research and development, an ageing academic workforce, and pressure on research infrastructure, while noting the continued importance of the NRF and HSRC in supporting national priorities. He also underscored the need for a coordinated, whole of government approach and stronger innovation capacity at the provincial and local levels. The NRF presented its mandate, strategic framework and priorities for 2026/27, focusing on research funding, postgraduate and researcher support, science engagement, and the sustainability of national research infrastructure. The HSRC outlined its planned research priorities, flagship projects and policy-aligned interventions aimed at addressing poverty, inequality, unemployment, governance, health and social cohesion through evidence based social science research. Members engaged both entities on issues relating to funding sustainability, transformation, research impact, infrastructure backlogs, postgraduate and internship programmes, governance and policy influence. The NRF and HSRC leadership responded to questions, and provided clarity on planned interventions and risk mitigation measures. In closing, the Chairperson reaffirmed the Committee's commitment to ensuring accountability, transparency and alignment of publicly funded research with national development priorities.