The implementation of the research output policy in South Africa : challenges and solutions

Abstract

In South Africa, writing and publishing scientific articles is an important activity of academic life. It not only enhances the academic status and profile of the author and his or her institution, but also contributes towards the subsidy transfers of the Department of Higher Education and Training to universities. Furthermore, academic promotion is increasingly subject to a strong track record of research publications. Most importantly, academic publishing is the primary vehicle for the advancement of scientific knowledge required to enhance the quality of life of the society and also to strengthen the economy. Therefore, the government introduced the Policy and Procedures for the Measurement of Research Output of Public Higher Education Institutions, 2003, as a tool to sustain and encourage research productivity in order to increase research output. However, despite the compelling advantages of academic publishing, research outputs of South African universities are very low and are largely contributed by a small number of academics. Therefore, it is clear that the policy faces the serious challenge of failing to achieve the intended outcomes. One of the main causes of this challenge is attributed to the inability of higher education institutions to effectively carry out the implementation process. The article evaluates the implementation of the Policy and Procedures for the Measurement of Research Output of Public Higher Education Institutions, 2003, however paying specific attention to the University of Pretoria and the University of Venda. In conclusion, the implementation challenges faced by these institutions are examined and solutions provided.