Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), in collaboration with the National Research Foundation (NRF), engaged in a consultative process held at the Council Chambers to deliberate on the reconfiguration of two discipline-based funding instruments: the Competitive Programme for Rated Researchers (CPRR), and the Competitive Support for Unrated Researchers (CSUR). These two instruments are set to be replaced by a new suite of Thematic Research Funding Instruments.
Mthobeli Myeza, NRF Pre-Grant Administrator at MUT’s Research Directorate, said the introduction of the Thematic Research Funding Instruments marks a significant paradigm shift in the NRF’s approach to research funding. “The key features of this new approach include revised eligibility criteria, a strong emphasis on societal impact, a strategic focus on capacity development and succession planning, and a commitment to promoting the sharing of infrastructure, equipment, and other resources within and across institutions,” said Myeza. Myeza also noted that this collaborative model aimed to optimise return on investment and enhance the long-term sustainability of South Africa’s research enterprise.
Unlike the previous individual-based funding models, the new instruments will support research groups composed of established, newly established, emerging, and next-generation researchers. These groups will be required to adopt multi-, inter-, or transdisciplinary approaches aligned with strategically identified themes.
The NRF is preparing to launch a call for proposals in 2025 to pilot this programme under three initial themes: Health, Energy, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This will be an advantage to MUT staff, as they are well-equipped to research these areas.