Public-Private Partnerships: A Theoretical Review of the National System of Innovation in South Africa

Abstract This theoretical paper critically examines the role of the National System of Innovation (NSI) in research and innovation through networking. This secondary research focuses on critically reviewing the literature on public-private research partnerships (PPPs) and interrogating their relationship with and impact on the performance of the NSI. The study analyses the current state and approach to partnerships by the NSI, highlights constraints to forming partnerships, and unveils approaches and models that may be adopted to foster Public-Private-Partnerships needed to attract private sector investment necessary for the NSI.