South Africa falling behind on local stage

By Henry Booysen
08 September 2007

Sappi, which is the world’s leading producer of coated fine paper and chemical cellulose is suggesting that South Africa is falling behind when it comes to competing academically in the global arena if it does not produce more scientists.

During a conference last month the National Research Foundation has found that South Africa will not be able to compete academically in the global arena if it does not produce more scientists.

“We are well aware of the problem and are battling to recruit appropriate candidates with the necessary skills just within our company which relies increasingly on cutting edge technology to compete internationally,” says Andre OBerholzer, Group Head Corporate Affairs of Sappi Limited.