ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS TO ENHANCE SANCOR'S SEA AND COAST II PROGRAMME

 

The new proposed SANCOR Sea and Coast II programme provides a framework for focal areas of research in marine science, engineering and technology. It aims to build information and strengthen capacity for the management of marine and coastal resource use, and conservation of biodiversity. This programme recognizes the need for an understanding of the ecological, social and economic challenges, and addresses the need to promote sustainable development.

 

The proposed SANCOR Sea and Coast II programme comprises 7 interacting research thrusts covering the priority research areas for project development. Key elements of the programme, which are addressed at all levels (programme, thrust, project), are promotion of multi-disciplinary approaches, student training and corrective action.

 

In developing these research thrusts a number of elements of generic nature were identified, which are not easily dealt with within individual projects or thrusts alone, but require specific separate attention. These issues are not directly related to research activities but are areas where a lack of skills capacity has been identified or where scientific involvement needs to be encouraged and promoted. The SANCOR community considers it essential that creative and productive means be sought to address them.

 

We have identified four major elements. These four elements have financial implications that are considered essential to the success of the proposed programme, but that are not easily incorporated in a document outlining research focus areas. As some or all elements may also extend to other spheres of the NRF, it is recommended that the NRF handle these as a generic, albeit essential, matter.

 

1. Communication

 

There is a need to strengthen the dissemination of scientific information to policy-makers, users of resources and the public.

 

2. Training and skills development

 

Poor numeracy and analytical skills have been identified as a current and potential problem for enhancement of marine science and technology in South Africa. In addition, it is recognized that scientists are often required to become involved in aspects of resource management that are beyond research, such as policy advice and facilitation, and are usually not equipped to tackle these effectively.

 

A possible solution could be found in the development of a multi-disciplinary M.Sc. level graduate course that could be structured in a modular form such that professional scientists could subscribe to various components.

 

3. Policy development participation

 

Marine and coastal scientists are frequently asked to become involved in policy formulation processes and implementation thereof. While SANCOR recognizes the importance of contributing to such endeavours, they often have large associated subsistence and travel costs, which have in the past been met by individuals or by SANCOR. It would be helpful if funding provision could be made to enable this participation in the future.

 

4. Regional scientific liaison-within and across thrusts

 

During the Sea and the Coast Programme regular managerial meetings were held to administer the funds, prioritize allocation and assess progress, but there was little interaction between the scientists involved in different projects within thrusts. SANCOR believes that it would be very beneficial if regular (annual) scientific/research meetings could be held that bring together the participants from the different projects so that more interactions can occur.