Question

How is the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) aligning with the National Spatial Development  Framework 2050?

Answer 1

The National Spatial Development Framework 2050 sets out national spatial directives for all forms of infrastructure investment and developmental spending targeted by government in partnership with the private sector.

In realising this, one of the key thrusts of the plan is "technology, innovation, resilience and disruptions in the space economy", through which South Africa will roll out fast broadband access across the country; support the development of highly automated mining activities; promote automation in key economic sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture; and accelerate the closure of factories and mines that are unable to compete globally.

TIA will increase the footprint of its innovation infrastructure to contribute to the plan's aspirations of "a focus on innovation and knowledge generation, packaging and sale, expansion, modernisation and re-gearing of the higher education sector towards growing and supporting innovation" over the medium term by ensuring that the interventions it undertakes lead to inclusive localised development.