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Can Theoretical Physicsdevelop knowledge workers?Denitely! Theoretical Physics is a branch of physicsthat employs mathematical models and abstractionsof physics to rationalise, explain and predict naturalphenomena The advancement of science dependsin general on the interplay between experimentalstudies and theory. (Source 4)

Theoretical Physics

equips people with problem solving, numericaland analytic skills. These skills are typically used inthe nancial, insurance, consultation, IT, teaching and

academic sectors, where the bulk of NIThePs graduatesnd employment.

offers an inexpensive training environment. Nocostly equipment is required, so there are no major capitalcosts.

NITheP plays an important role in acceleratingthe aims of the National Development Plan:poverty reduction, economic growth, economictransformation and job creation.

What is the National DevelopmentPlan (NDP)?

The National Development Plan is the governments plan for thecountry to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality by 2030through uniting South Africans, unleashing the energies of itscitizens, growing an inclusive economy, building capabilities,enhancing the capability of the state and leaders workingtogether to solve complex problems. (Source 1)

Can poverty in South Africa reallybe overcome?Yes, poverty can be eliminated by 2030, according to statisticspresented by Bono, U2 lead singer and anti-poverty campaigner,

at the February 2013 TED conference. Concerted effort fromvarious parties is required to accomplish this. (Source 2)

What is the new global context?The developed world has changed from a post-industrial/massproduction economy to a knowledge economy. This economyuses knowledge technologies to produce economic benets, aswell as job creation.

To fully participate in the global knowledge economy SouthAfrica needs knowledge workers, as opposed to manualworkers.

Peter Drucker, author of The Eective Executive, says knowledgeworkers work with their head and produce ideas, knowledgeand information. Their main capital is knowledge. Those whothink for a living include software engineers, architects,

engineers, lawyers and scientists. (Source 3)

THE ROLE OF SCIENCE AND

TECHNOLOGY IN ACCELERATING

THE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN

www.nithep.ac.za

Sources:1. http://www.info.gov.za/issues/national-development-plan/development-plan-2012.html2. http://www.ted.com/talks/bono_the_good_news_on_poverty_yes_there_s_good_news.html3 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knowledge_production

4. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theoretical_physics