The South African National Space Agency(SANSA), in collaboration with the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), is pleased to announce the upcoming call for proposals for the DSTI-NRF’s Research Accelerator Fund for Space Innovation (RASI). This initiative aims to drive research, innovation, and skills development in the Space Science and Technology (SST) sector, focusing on key SST-related areas.
The NRF invites proposals from academics, Historically disadvantaged institutions (HDIs), and Universities of Technology (UoTs) partnering with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to address research needs and accelerate innovation in the SST sector. Awards will be supported over 1-2 years, depending on the applicant’s research needs.
Programme Objectives
- Enable researchers and technicians (artisans enrolled at Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges) to develop solutions using space related innovation.
- Build technical and research capacity in space sciences at Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (HDIs) and Universities of Technology institutions through partnership with established institutions and industry partners.
- Strengthen collaboration between TVET colleges, universities, and industry stakeholders.
The programme will specifically focus on application-based science, not theoretical, in the innovation landscape. This includes research support, training and skills development, and networking activities among TVET colleges, universities, and industry stakeholders.
Key dates
Call for Proposals opens: 19 February 2025
Information session: Early March 2025
Application deadline: 21 April 2025
For enquiries and further information on the proposals, please contact:
Name: Themba Masiba
Role: Professional Office: International Grants and Partnerships
Email: TI.Masiba@risa.nrf.ac.za
Name: Zamokhule Betheleszi
Role: Liaison Officer: International Grants and Partnerships
Email: Z.Buthelezi@risa.nrf.ac.za
Click here to get real time data and information on every Segments and players in the African space and satellite industry.
