Innovation for inclusive development and transformation in South Africa

Abstract

Science, technology and innovation (STI) are generally accepted as major drivers of growth and can help address poverty and directly improve the well-being of different groups in society. However, many countries are facing the challenge of attaining economic growth that is socially inclusive and equitable. Under certain circumstances, STI can reinforce social exclusion and inequalities. This book explores discourses around directionality and the need or importance of innovation for inclusive development (IID) in order to address policy questions that explore the relationship between IID with inequalities in income and opportunities. Nevertheless, IID as a concept is itself fraught with contestations around its conceptualisations, as well as how it is constructed and framed. Therefore, the book seeks to unpack the concept of IID and what it means in a country such as South Africa - a country characterised by endemic poverty, deepening inequality and high levels of unemployment. We declare that the material in this book is largely original and is based on a critique of existing literature to expose specific issues or bolster specific arguments about the role of IID in equitable and inclusive development. The book contributes to the understanding of IID and its application in low and middle-income countries, and it uses a specific example to demonstrate technical and contextual factors that affect its impact. Most studies on IID have been done in developed countries, and the intention of this book is to fill this knowledge gap and raise an understanding of the enablers and constraints of its application. This book is based on a series of chapters that are authored based on a systematic review of relevant literature, empirical work on local innovations and a series of policy dialogues on IID, which the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) conducted in the last 10 years.