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With administrative and financial support from the National
Research Foundation (NRF), the CSIR runs an access grant
scheme that makes unique laser equipment and diagnostics
available to South African researchers in laser-related
fields. The scheme provides Tertiary Education Institutions
(TEIs) in South Africa with access to lasers, diagnostic
equipment and technical support to enable them to conduct
research. The equipment is rented out to TEIs for specific
approved research projects. While the name of the scheme,
the Rental Pool Programme (RPP), suggests that the equipment
and services are rented, there is no cost to the participating
TEI. The role of the CSIR in this regard is to enable research
by providing the equipment, research guidance and technical
expertise and support. The CSIR intends to stimulate and
grow laser research programmes.
The CSIR and the NRF source funding for all associated
costs on behalf of participating TEIs. The focus areas of
RPP research projects are determined by the TEIs themselves
and the CSIR strives to encourage as diverse a laser research
portfolio as possible. The research straddles disciplines
such as physics, engineering, chemistry, health and environmental
science. |
