Public Understanding of Biotechnology (PUB)

A programme on the Public Understanding of Biotechnology (PUB) has been launched by the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA) in early 2003. SAASTA, which is part of the National Research Foundation (NRF) was elected as the implementing agency for PUB by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), who are funding this three year initiative.

The overall aim of the PUB programme is to promote a clear understanding of the potential of biotechnology and to ensure broad public awareness, dialogue and debate on its current and potential future applications, including Genetic Modification (GM).

Engaging the public

The target audience includes all facets of society, with an emphasis on consumers, educators and learners. PUB will provide a single biotechnology vision for South Africa, representing the multiple stakeholders involved and engaging people at all levels of society. It will also develop expertise and build capacity in communicating this complex issue, ensuring the dissemination of accurate and factually correct information accessible to the broad South African public.

An emphasis will be placed on engaging the public in debate rather than prescribing specific views and will focus on new, innovative approaches to reach and involve diverse audiences.

Biotechnology initiatives

This programme is one of a number of initiatives of DST following the publication of the National Biotechnology Strategy in June 2001. Others include the creation of a number of Biotechnology Innovation Centres (BICs) to act as nuclei for the development of biotechnology platforms, from which a range of businesses offering new products and services can be developed. A Biotechnology Advisory Committee (BAC) under the auspices of the Cabinet's Economics Cluster is also being established to oversee the implementation of the Strategy and the alignment of the R&D activities with national priorities.