Paradigm shift: the value of transformative innovation policy for South Africa

Abstract

Policymakers globally agree that innovation is critical to addressing our societal and environmental challenges, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals set out in the 2030 Agenda, "Transforming our World". Doing so across different countries requires systemic transitions and transformative change - and this means new ways of doing things and new ways of framing policy problems and their solutions. System-wide transformation requires innovative solutions beyond technological interventions alone. Piecemeal, short-term and partial policy interventions can quickly reinforce persistent challenges, or even create new complexities.