National Research Foundation
Usually referred to by its acronym: The NRF
The NRF is an independent South African government agency, which was established in 1998 to promote and support research in all fields of knowledge. It was established through the National Research Foundation Act (Act No 23 of 1998), and incorporates a number of research funding agencies in various sections of the research community. The former Centre for Science Development (CSD) of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) is one of these.
As an independent government agency, the NRF promotes and supports research in all fields of knowledge. It also conducts research and provides access to National Research Facilities. The NRF provides services to the research community especially at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and Science Councils with a view to promote high-level human capital development. The NRF aims to uphold excellence in all its investments in knowledge, people and infrastructure.