East London:Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande is set to visit the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) Science and Technology Park on Friday. His visit aims to explore how innovation, enterprise development, and technical skills can contribute to South Africa's industrialisation efforts.

According to South African Government News Agency, the strategic engagement will highlight the park's role in linking new ideas and technological advancements with industry. It will also seek opportunities to enhance collaboration across government, business, and the innovation sector.

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation stated that the visit will allow Minister Nzimande to engage with leaders from Provincial and Local Government, the ELIDZ, and innovators and entrepreneurs. Discussions will focus on the challenges and opportunities in transforming research, technology, and new ideas into commercially viable products and services.

The ELIDZ Science and Technology Park, established in 2014, is South Africa's first and only science and technology park fully integrated within an Industrial Development Zone. It provides incubation, product development, specialised facilities, and technology support to help entrepreneurs bring their ideas to market. Currently, the park supports over 71 enterprises, boosting industrial competitiveness and economic development in the Eastern Cape.

This visit is part of the Ministry's broader efforts to build stronger connections with Special Economic Zones and industry, develop local and regional innovation ecosystems, and promote innovation-led industrialisation. Minister Nzimande will be joined by MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Nonkqubela Pieters; Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Princess Faku; and ELIDZ Board Chairperson, Ayanda Kanana.