News


THRIP boosts SA industry and economy

5 June 2002 News

During 2002, at least R260 million will be invested in research and development activities designed to improve the competitiveness of South African industry. Some 200 projects have been approved for science and technology research grants that range from R5000 to R8 million. These grants are awarded through the Technology and Human Resources for Industry Programme (THRIP), managed by the National Research Foundation (NRF) on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti).

Of the R260 million, government made available R130 million through the dti, with the other half being private sector funds from small and large industrial companies. Government and industry match each other's financial support through THRIP due to researchers tackling problems to find solutions to existing challenges experienced by industry. The projects supported by THRIP this year cover a wide range of technology areas, including agriculture, bio-processing, food, forestry, health care, materials, mining, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and power systems.

Dr Gerhard von Gruenewaldt, NRF Vice-President, remarks: "THRIP has a key role in providing knowledge workers with the skills to combine knowledge, technology and productive activity in the knowledge economy. This role strongly supports the intentions of the dti's integrated manufacturing strategy, as discussed by Dr Alistair Ruiters, Director-General of the dti, in Parliament recently."

THRIP addresses the expressed need for interventions that focus on challenges in industrial development and competitiveness. In addition to supporting focused research and technology development with well defined outputs, the THRIP funds contribute towards the training of more than 1800 postgraduate students this year. Of these, more than 700 are black students and more than 550 are women. "The students who benefit from THRIP projects today will be the driving force behind the growth of South African industry in future," concludes Von Gruenewaldt.

For further information contact THRIP Manager, Dr Rob Drennan, 012 481 4104, [email protected]





Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Fro the editor's desk: AI – a double-edged sword
Technews Publishing News
As with any powerful tool, AI presents challenges, some of which, if not carefully managed, threaten to undo the potential that it can offer.

Read more...
Global semiconductor sales increase
News
The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) has announced global semiconductor sales were $57,0 billion during the month of April 2025, an increase of 2,5% compared to the March 2025.

Read more...
Avnet Abacus announced new president
Avnet Abacus News
Avnet Abacus has announced that Mario Merino will succeed Rudy Van Parijs as president of Avnet Abacus, effective 1 July 2025.

Read more...
Avnet Abacus wins multiple prestigious awards
Avnet Abacus News
The awards from Molex recognise outstanding performance, collaboration, and significant growth in the challenging market conditions of 2024.

Read more...
Components distribution slowdown Q1 2025
News
European components distribution (DMASS) experienced a continued slowdown in the first quarter 2025.

Read more...
Semiconductor sales increase 17% YoY
News
The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) recently announced global semiconductor sales were $54,9 billion during the month of February 2025, an increase of 17,1% compared to the February 2024 total.

Read more...
Silicon Labs – Q1 results
News
Silicon Labs, a leading innovator in low-power wireless, recently reported financial results for the first quarter, which ended April 5, 2025.

Read more...
Strengthening industry through strategic partnerships at KITE 2025
Specialised Exhibitions News
The KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition is not just an exhibition, it is a powerhouse of industry collaboration where visitors and exhibitors gain access to authoritative insights, technical expertise, and high-impact networking opportunities.

Read more...
Solar Youth Project calls on industry to step up
News
With the second cohort completed training and the first cohort returning for their final module, host companies are urgently needed to turn the training into a long-term opportunity.

Read more...
Conlog powers SA’s future with national smart meter rollout
News
Conlog recently secured the RT29-2024 contract from National Treasury, which is seen to be a major milestone towards modernising SA’s utility infrastructure.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved