On the proposed new funding framework - a trajectory for growth or negative entropy for research at technikons?

Abstract

The proposed new funding framework has dire repercussions for technikon subsidies when measured in terms of research outputs. The steering mechanism for state funding is focussed on graduate output rates and this lends added pressure for technikons to enrol quality students and at the same time increase throughput rates. It also implies that technikons with different mandates and resources may have to focus on enrolling more students for Masters and Doctoral degrees in order to those historically institutions whose track record for research is undernourished. In essence, the funding framework although advocating a new trajectory towards sustainable growth, paradoxically appears to lead historically disadvantaged technikons towards negative entropy. This article explores the implications of the proposed funding mechanism on technikon research outputs and highlights the generate research output subsidies. More importantly, the funding strategy for research and development places technikons at a distinct disadvantage especially historical ethos of the philosophy of technikon education.


(South African Journal of Higher Education: 2003 17 (1): 54-60)