The Committee visited the CSIR and was encouraged by its multidisciplinary research and innovation approach, which was strategically focused on the areas of energy, health, the built environment, the natural environment, defence and security, and industry. Notably, these areas are in line with key government priorities and the needs of the South African people. Particular focus was the development of dedicated wards for tuberculosis (TB) patients, which were being constructed at nine hospitals. Also noteworthy was the wireless mesh network project, which aims to provide broadband networks in rural areas.