JABULANI SIKHAKHANE: Five critical threats thanks to US cuts in academic funding
Impact is not just about money but also of an entire research ecosystem
SA has for many years punched way above its weight in scientific research, especially in the medical field, helped mostly by money pumped into the country’s university system by Western countries and other donors. I won’t discuss the potential loss of lives; much has been said about that by other voices.
The US decision to reduce, and possibly stop, the funding of research by SA academics therefore poses a big challenge to SA’s research ecosystem. The impact will spill over to the rest of the continent because of the leading role SA researchers play in helping develop research capacity in other African countries. ..
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.