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Higher Education and Training Fund Update
Overview
The Higher Education and Training Fund (HE TF) is a granting agency established in 2000 to foster partnerships between higher education institutions and industry, supporting research and development.
Background
In 2021, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) conducted a review of the HE TF with regard to its structure, mandate, governance, and funding. This review aimed to assess whether the fund’s current model was effective in meeting industry needs and requirements while still supporting higher education institutions.
Review and Recommendations
During 2022, the DHET will finalize this review to determine the best structure and governance model for the HE TF that is more responsive to industry needs and requirements. The review involves:
- Consulting with stakeholders such as industry leaders, academia, research experts, and NGOs
- Considering global best practices in funding and supporting innovation, technology transfer, and commercialization of research outputs
Next Steps
The finalised report on the review will be tabled in Parliament for consideration. This marks an important step towards ensuring that the HE TF is optimized to support South Africa’s higher education institutions and drive economic growth through innovative technologies.
Key Objectives
- Develop a governance model that is more responsive to industry needs and requirements
- Support higher education institutions in developing innovative technologies
- Foster partnerships between academia, industry, and research experts
- Leverage global best practices in funding and supporting innovation