What have we learnt from the trip? Participation in the sectors of science and technology for South Africa is more on basic research than in applied research. Research and development investment by government in South Africa is below 1%, compared to South Korea and Japan. This curbs research and knowledge generation in science and technology. A well-educated workforce in Japan and South Korea allowed them to absorb new technologies. Investing in education at all levels is critical in laying the foundation for technical capabilities and industrial development.