I believe we can reverse the imbalances, by promoting skills training, especially among our future leaders - the youth. Multi-nationals should also give a hand in this regard, by entering into partnerships or joint ventures with local enterprises. I am certain that, this could result in real transfer of skills for technological innovation. We are aware, that for any country to catch up with the fast integrating global economy, it has to invest handsomely in research, which influences its strategic direction concerning industrial and technological innovations. Countries with successful economies, especially those in the west, have a history of putting aside huge budget allocations for research, which ensures that they maintain their competitive edge over developing nations of the south.
Research is crucial in ensuring that government makes informed decisions.
However, for research to be effective it has to address the specific needs of a country and provide results orientated development strategies. We can not afford spending on gathering an elitist information which plays no role in the transformation of our society. We are already aware of some of the problems affecting the growth of small businesses, and we are still battling to find innovative ways to expand this sector from the traditional grocery or spaza shop mentality. The quality of the contribution to the economy by the SMME sector will depend on the quality and practicality of research information, to guide aspiring entrepreneurs and policy makers. With the advent of a promising tourism industry, studies should be made into how to draw black people into tourism and hospitality oriented SMME sector.