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Some of the Nigerian policy makers and CSIR Materials Science and Manufacturing representatives who met to discuss the possibility of collaborations between the CSIR and Nigerian researchers |
Attempts to foster closer research and development (R&D) ties between South Africa and the Federal Republic of Nigeria received a boost when a group of Nigerian policy makers visited the CSIR.
According to the CSIR's Dr Christopher Mlosy, the visit follows a decision to place greater focus on an Africa strategy involving specific countries, including Nigeria. Dr Mlosy is contract R&D manager: Africa, NEPAD and international institutions at CSIR Materials Science and Manufacturing. "We visited the Nigerian High Commissioner in South Africa in April this year, after which we received the request to engage with about 30 delegates from Nigeria's National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, the highest policy training institution in that country," he explains. "They are here on a study tour and will, among others, engage South Africa's Department of Science and Technology."
CSIR Materials Science and Manufacturing representatives, including Dr Willie du Preez in his capacity as acting Executive Director, Bongani Memela, manager of agencies and contract R&D, Delon Mudaly, R&D outcomes manager and Dr Neil Trollip, strategic research manager, fielded some interesting and thought-provoking questions.
Questions centred mostly on how the CSIR manages its research and how Nigeria could work with SA research institutions. The delegation also asked questions such as: How do you develop, attract and retain highly skilled staff? Where exactly is South Africa positioned on aerospace R&D? How do you protect and commercialise inventions? How do you ensure that your research is directed and appropriate? Did you foresee last year's energy crisis and if so, what did you do to try to prevent it?
The Nigerian delegation concluded its visit by expressing the wish for collaboration on three fronts, namely R&D on 40 minerals that Nigeria has in abundance; the setting up of coal-based electricity plants, especially with regard to R&D on clean coal technologies; and R&D on metals with specific applications, with a view to developing a sound foundry industry.
Says Mlosy: "This was merely one of the early steps to foster closer working relationships with Nigerian researchers. Another step is the involvement of the Nigerian research agencies, whereafter visits from materials and energy researchers and technology developers are envisaged. Now these policy makers have an idea of how the CSIR can assist implementation and development of new technologies for Nigeria and Africa."
Enquiries: CSIR Communication
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