Abstract

It is important for a country to have a sufficient number of PhD graduates for several reasons:

Firstly, countries need enough PhDs to train the next generation of students at higher education institutions (HEIs).

Secondly, PhD graduates are often at the forefront of research and innovation in various fields; they contribute new knowledge, ideas and technologies that can drive economic growth and improve the quality of life.

Thirdly, countries with a strong base of PhD graduates are more competitive globally – they are better positioned to attract investment, talent and opportunities for collaboration with other countries. Furthermore, they are often perceived as being more advanced and influential on the world stage.

This Fact Sheet provides insight into the progress made against the goal to increase doctoral graduates in South Africa.