The Department of Science and Technology (DST) of Africa and Nokia announced their partnership aimed at implementing a number of information and communication technology projects in South Africa.

DST is leading the implementation of the national ICT research, development and innovation strategy. In this regard, we view public-private partnerships to be of importance for us in achieving this objective,” said Naledi Pandor, minister of Science and Technology.

One of the important outcomes of this plan is an innovative indigenous ICT industry that addresses South Africa’s ICT needs in the public and private sectors, and attracts investment by multinationals involved in innovation and manufacturing.

In addition to a significant increase in the number of postgraduate students at Masters and PhD levels, these R&D outputs are gradually evolving into near-market prototypes, large-scale technology demonstrators and packaged solutions that can readily address key priorities of government, such as education, health and enhanced citizen interaction with government.  

South Africa has a thriving telecommunication industry with a lot of potential for disruptive innovation. Our objective is to support local talent in developing their skills, and then integrate them into both regional and global markets,” said Jussi Hinkkanen, vice president for Government Relations for Nokia Middle East and Africa.

In addition to stimulating entrepreneurial activity and high technological innovation, the collaboration intends to stimulate the interest of South African learners, cultivating the scientists and engineers of tomorrow.

As South Africa’s leading mobile company, it is our responsibility to identify areas where our technical skills can facilitate the development of society. We hope the educational focus under this collaboration will motivate thousands of South African learners to explore careers in technology,” said Gerard Brandjes, general manager for Nokia in South Africa.

By Telecomlead.com Team
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