Knowledge Management and Evaluation

NRF ratings are allocated based on researcher’s recent research outputs and impact as perceived by international peer reviewers. The rating system encourages researchers to publish high quality outputs in high impact journals/outlets. Ratings are used as the basis for benchmarking in the NSI/HEIs and NRF funding programmes. It is also a way to ensure that the next generation of researchers in the HEI are supervised and trained by “accredited” (established researchers). The seven hundred and eighty six (786) rating applications received for the closing date 28 Feb 2012 are the highest number in the history of the unit.

The rating of individuals is based primarily on the quality and impact of their research outputs over the past eight years, taking into consideration the evaluation made by local and international peers.

The NRF uses the evaluation and rating system as a mechanism to nurture scholarship and grow the country’s research capacity.

Reviews of programmes/disciplines/institutions

The NRF strives to ensure that its reporting and disclosure procedures to stakeholders are relevant, clear and effective.

The NEXUS Database System is a collection of databases covering current research information for all scientific disciplines.

The NRF with the funding from the Carnegie Corporation of New York facilitates and coordinates digitisation initiatives at a national level.

The South African Data Archive promotes and facilitates the sharing of research data and related documentation of computerised raw quantitative data of large scale regional, national and international research projects mainly in the humanities and social sciences.

A collaborative project to promote and support Electronic Theses and Dissertations projects at all South African institutions.