The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, has officially welcomed the launch of the Centre for Advanced Training and Innovative Research (CATIR) in Pretoria. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to boost South Africa’s scientific capacity by equipping future researchers with advanced skills in molecular science and laboratory management.
At the opening ceremony, Gina described the centre as a major step forward in building a knowledge-based economy powered by research and innovation. “By investing in this centre, we are investing in the future of South African science, empowering our researchers, nurturing young talent, and fostering an environment where innovation can thrive,” she said.
Strategic Partnerships Driving Innovation
CATIR is the result of a collaboration between the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI), the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), and Thermo Fisher Scientific, a global leader in life sciences research. This partnership aims to bridge the gap between academic training and real-world scientific applications, particularly in molecular techniques and laboratory management.
Gina emphasised that the launch of CATIR supports the Decadal Plan 2022–2032, which focuses on building an inclusive and transformed National System of Innovation to meet the needs of society and the economy. Already, students from previously disadvantaged universities, including Sefako Makgatho, Venda, and Limpopo, are benefitting from this initiative.
Training the Next Generation of Scientists
The centre will serve as a hub for hands-on training, preparing graduates for careers in scientific research and laboratory work. Once fully operational, CATIR will train up to 160 students each year. The first cohort of 20 students is expected to complete their training by the end of 2025.
Highlighting the SAMRC’s role, Gina praised the organisation’s proven track record in managing capacity-building programmes for young scientists from historically under-resourced institutions such as Zululand, Venda, Limpopo, and Walter Sisulu University.
Industry Expertise Enhancing Science Education
Urmi Prasad Richardson, President of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at Thermo Fisher Scientific, underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in building local expertise. “Alongside the SAMRC, we are proud to be investing our time, resources and knowledge into this important new facility to meet our shared goal of building locally relevant capabilities and expertise amongst the next generation of South Africa’s scientists,” Richardson said.
Professor Ntobeko Ntusi, President and CEO of SAMRC, stressed the urgent need for advanced scientific training. He noted that the COVID-19 pandemic revealed critical gaps in South Africa’s molecular testing and clinical research skills. “The opening of this important new educational facility is a landmark moment in our journey to achieving this important goal,” Ntusi said.
A Milestone for South Africa’s Scientific Future
The establishment of CATIR highlights the importance of collaboration across sectors to develop the skills required to address current and future health challenges. Gina urged stakeholders to continue working together to build a brighter, healthier, and more innovative future for South Africa.
With its focus on practical training, innovation, and collaboration, CATIR is set to play a pivotal role in developing the next generation of scientific leaders in the country.
