Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is South Africa's central scientific research and development organization.It is a parastatal entity that reports to the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI). In 2026, the CSIR remains a critical engine for the country's industrialization and "Education 5.0" strategy, focusing on high-impact technologies that address poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

The organization is currently led by Dr. Thulani Dlamini, who has served as CEO since 2017. Under his leadership, the CSIR has achieved significant financial stability, recording an operating income of R3.54 billion in the most recent fiscal year and maintaining a record of 15 consecutive years of clean audits.