South African national survey of research and experimental development: science councils sector R&D at a glance 2021/22. Fact sheet 57

Science councils play an integral role providing evidence to assist government in decision-making. Each science council has a particular research mandate focusing on areas such as health, agriculture, mining and minerals, and industrial development. Although budget constraints hindered expenditure and personnel retention over the past few years, there was an increase in expenditure and personnel in 2021/22.