About the Programme

The Presidential PhD Programme, is set to drive scientific and technological advancements crucial for South Africa’s future.

Presidential
PhD Programme

About the Presidential PhD Programme

The Presidential PhD Programme, a transformative initiative spearheaded by President Cyril Ramaphosa to elevate South Africa’s research and innovation landscape.

How it was started

Launched during the first Presidential Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Plenary on December 12, 2023, the Programme represents a strategic investment of R1 billion from the National Skills Fund.

Elevating South Africa’s Research and Innovation Landscape

The Programme represents a strategic investment of R1 billion from the National Skills Fund

Driving Scientific and Technological Advancements Crucial for South Africa’s Future.

This groundbreaking programme is designed to cultivate a new generation of top-tier researchers by offering exceptional PhD students, postdoctoral fellows, and early career researchers an invaluable international research experience.

The Programme aims to connect South Africa’s brightest minds with leading global universities and research institutions, aligning their research with cutting-edge projects in both public and private sectors. By focusing on high-impact areas such as artificial intelligence, advanced biotechnology, fuel-cell development, and next-generation mining, the Programme is set to drive scientific and technological advancements crucial for South Africa’s future.

Thematic Areas:

Mining Transformation

Develop sustainable and innovative mining practices.

Advanced Biotechnology

Harness biotechnology for healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.

The Water-Food-Health Sustainability Nexus

Address interlinked challenges in water security, food production, and health.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Leverage AI/ML to drive innovation across multiple sectors.

The Just Energy transition

Support a transition to sustainable and equitable energy systems.

Get Involved

Whether you are a prospective doctoral candidate, an academic institution, or an industry leader, there are numerous ways to get involved with the Programme. Explore our website to learn more about the programme, our partnerships, and how you can contribute to this transformative initiative.