Centre of Expertise programme: Model to enhance collaboration for knowledge based growth

The feasibility study was carried out as a part of the COFISA Programme which is a Cooperative Framework on Innovation Systems between Finland and South Africa, with the overall objective to enhance the effectiveness of the South African national system of innovation in order to promote economic growth and poverty alleviation. In addition, COFISA seeks to enhance collaboration between national and provincial stakeholders within the National System of Innovation. The overall objective was to conduct a feasibility study for the inception phase of the Centre of Expertise Programme in the region of Tshwane, Midrand and Johannesburg. Special objectives included the motivation of local stakeholders (The Innovation Hub, City of Tshwane, Department of Science and Technology, universities, business and research institutes) to participate in the inception, and finally in the implementation of a pilot Centre of Expertise Programme. This is not of an academic study and conclusions and practical recommendations are based on observations made during meetings held in Gauteng between 20.5. 10.6. 2007. During this period 53 meetings were arranged with about 200 local representatives, from the ICT, Bio and Aeronautics industries (22 meetings), universities research and management organisations (10 meetings), other research, networking or financial organisations and governmental meetings (12) including the Department of Science and Technology and the Executive Mayor of Tshwane.