Money as a science: The CSIR’s EDT4IR research centre is leading the next frontier of scientific research

By Carel de Jager, Research Group Leader at CSIR for DLT/Blockchain

For over 75 years, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has been instrumental in shaping South Africa’s scientific and technological landscape. Established in 1945 to address the nation’s industrial and developmental needs through rigorous research and innovation, the CSIR has consistently been at the vanguard of progress. From pioneering breakthroughs in the physical sciences to leading the charge in digital transformation, the organisation has driven economic growth and enhanced the lives of all South Africans.

Staying in Sync with Societal Shifts

The CSIR’s history mirrors South Africa’s economic and industrial evolution. In its early years, the organisation focused on advancing infrastructure, agriculture, and resource management to support a post-war nation eager for growth. Demonstrating a commitment to impactful innovation, the CSIR contributed to over 50 global inventions and scientific breakthroughs since inception

One of its landmark achievements was the development of the world’s first microwave-based Electronic Distance Measurement (EDM) device in 1954, revolutionising land surveying worldwide. In the 1960s, the CSIR’s advancements in lithium metal-oxide electrode materials laid the groundwork for modern lithium-ion batteries, a cornerstone of today’s energy storage solutions. The establishment of the Satellite Remote Sensing Centre in 1978 provided critical Earth observation capabilities, enhancing environmental management and resource planning.

Throughout the decades, the CSIR has demonstrated strategic agility, aligning its research with South Africa’s most pressing challenges. In the 1980s, it led advancements in fluidised-bed combustion technology, enabling efficient use of low-grade coal, and developed the Heavy Vehicle Simulator to improve road infrastructure design and longevity. Each initiative underscored the organisation’s ability to anticipate national needs and deliver solutions that propel the country forward.

Embracing the Digital Age and Information Technology

The advent of the internet in the 1990s transformed information into a dynamic, globally accessible resource. Recognising the profound potential of this digital revolution, the CSIR expanded its focus to include information technology, treating it as a pivotal scientific discipline. By establishing dedicated divisions, the CSIR positioned itself as a key driver of South Africa’s transition into the digital economy.

One notable achievement was the rapid development of the Covid-19 vaccination database during the pandemic. This robust system was crucial in managing and distributing vaccines efficiently across the nation. Additionally, the CSIR has made significant strides in digital data management, cybersecurity and remote sensing technologies, bolstering South Africa’s digital infrastructure.

To further catalyse innovation, the CSIR launched the Emerging Digital Technologies for 4IR (EDT4IR) research centre. This centre comprises specialised groups in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Extended Reality (XR), Advanced Internet of Things (AIoT), and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT). Each group spearheads projects that are shaping the future of South Africa:

• AI Group: Focuses on decision intelligence systems that enhance productivity and drive business-critical activities, such as tailored AI models for public sector applications and predictive analytics in sectors like healthcare and energy.
• XR Group: Develops immersive virtual reality (VR) and extended reality (XR) tools for practical applications, including workplace hazard simulations and training programs that provide hands-on experience in a safe, controlled environment.
• AIoT Group: Works on building a robust IoT platform to support smart infrastructure and operational systems, including government initiatives in electronic monitoring and urban management systems for services like water, electricity, and waste management.
• DLT Group: Advances blockchain technology for secure digital transactions and regulatory compliance, developing solutions for financial intelligence and document provenance to enhance transparency and trust in South African industries.

By harnessing these emerging technologies, the CSIR ensures that South Africa remains at the forefront of global digital transformation.