by South African Government News Agency
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Following the signing of the agreement, the two countries have jointly committed R140 million per year under the Newton Fund.
“The SA-UK Newton Fund will bring together contributions from both sides to support science, technology and innovation creating a catalyst to stimulate socio-economic development in South Africa and more widely across sub-Saharan Africa,” the Department of Science and Technology said in a statement.
The department said both countries are looking forward to working closely with other African countries.
The Fund will support projects in the thematic areas of public health, environment and food security. It will also support science and technology capacity building with a focus on seeking to ensure that activities have a regional footprint with the ultimate aim of encouraging research that boosts jobs and growth.
Signing the agreement on behalf of the South African government in Cape Town, Science and Technology Minister Naledi Pandor welcomed the cooperation, saying the two countries enjoyed strong bilateral relations in various areas.
Minister Pandor thanked both the South African and the UK officials who contributed to the achievement that led to the signing of the agreement.
“Thanks to the hard work and commitment shown by both our countries. Before the end of the year, South African scientists will be able to access the Newton Fund resources to support their cooperation.
Available: http://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/sa-uk-partner-support-science-innovation