k) The Committee views the contributory role of the Department as crucial when it comes to education. Particular concerns were raised with regard to inputs in curriculum development as part of a plan to address the low levels of science, engineering, technology and innovation students progressing through to postgraduate studies. In light of the Department's programme alignment to the objectives of the NDP, which foresee the number of first-rate scientists doubled by 2030, science intervention in education could not be limited to financial support for students in the field.