programmes
21 September 2006
South Africa will partner with Airbus in a new aerospace research and
technology initiative which aims to identify and develop new advanced
applications for the global aerospace industry.
The partnership, signed today between South Africaâs Department of Science
and Technology (DST) and Airbus, the worldâs leading aircraft manufacturer,
follows the countryâs decision last year to join the Airbus A400M military
transport programme.
Pilot projects already identified in the global Airbus co-operation strategy
with South Africa include research into the development and application of
synthetic fuels, natural fibres and light alloys component technologies.
Speaking at the biennial African Aerospace and Defence show in Cape Town, DST
Director-General, Dr Phil Mjwara, described the agreement as âvital in
safeguarding and developing South Africaâs competence in the various fields
associated with aerospace and aeronautics. We believe that Airbus, a company
whose success is built on its innovative use of pioneering technology, is the
best partner to support South Africa in the rejuvenation of its aerospace
capabilities, including the all-important arena of research and development
into new technologies, techniques and solutions.â
Airbusâ Head of Military Programmes of Airbus Finance Division, Eric
Buschmann, said: âOur agreement with South Africa is one of Airbusâ first steps
in its long-term strategy to develop competency through the establishment of a
broad collaborative network with key Research and Technology communities around
the world.â
Implementation of the multi-year co-operative agreement is expected to
commence within the next quarter. In addition, Airbus will contribute to the
skills development in South Africa by forging closer links between industry and
research institutions with the aim of fostering exchange programmes for
students and young graduates in industry and academia.
The partnership is expected to deliver mutual benefits in academic research
and industry as it provides opportunities for South African scientific,
industrial, university experts and Airbus to explore innovative solutions and
advanced technologies that may later be applied in the aeronautical
industry.
Enquiries:
Kristin Klose
Cell: 082 902 9503
Steven Ratsatsi
Cell: 082 523 4910
Issued by: The Department of Science and Technology
21 September 2006
Source: The Department of Science and Technology (http://www.dst.gov.za)
