Tackling post-apartheid South Africa's development planning challenges: the triple helix as a tool for skills development and institutional transformation

Abstract

Post-apartheid South Africa is faced with major challenges ranging from unemployment, vast income inequalities as well as the slow-pace of service delivery. Given these challenges faced by the government in realizing its development mandate, this research strives to identify the role of government, universities and the private sector in promoting sustainable growth. In this knowledge-based society, it is imperative for universities to produce graduates that can have a sound and critical understanding of developmental issues. Using the triple helix paradigm as well as collaborative planning theory as a conceptual framework, this research report strives to emphasise the significance of networking particularly between the government, universities as well as the business community. As the study unfolds, one would realize the significance of governance and/or collaboration in development planning. In this era of globalization and its emphasis on innovation, universities need to play a significant role in producing knowledge and creative ideas critical for fostering the nation’s developmental agenda. It is the aim of this research therefore to try and contribute to the progressive thinking or rationality that encourages effectual and meaningful collaboration between all developmental actors