Where is our next generation of researchers?

National commitment to establish researcher development as a priority is required

- ADEMOLA OLUMUYIWA OMOTOSHO DOUGLAS ANDREW OSMAN RUKSANA

FROM a comparative perspective, if a nation's investment in research consistently translates into the development of emerging indigenous researchers, South Africa would by now be making significant progress toward establishing itself as a hub for nurturing a new generation of world-class scholars.

The production of world-class scholars is not just an academic exercise; it is the bedrock of nation-building.

World powers such as Germany, South Korea, the US, and China are among the leading countries in cutting-edge and innovative research, with increased investments in developing their research environment. For instance, the US and South Korea invest more than 3.45% of their GDP in research and development. This investment is not just to increase scholarly publications; it promotes the creation of new enterprises, new jobs, and spurs industrial growth.

Research expenditures in South Africa are the highest on the continent; over 0.83% of the nation's GDP goes to research and investment, which amounts to approximately R43 billion annually. The motive behind this spending is to advance national progress and shape the future of existing and next-generation leaders in the country. Considering the ageing of existing researchers coupled with brain drain, the question remains: where is the next generation of home-grown researchers?