Counties Presentation – Overview of the R&I Ecosystem / Presentation Des Pays – Ecosysteme R&I du Pays

Mauritius

General Presentation of Mauritius

Mauritius is a picturesque island nation located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) southeast of the African mainland and east of Madagascar [1]. The island is divided into nine districts. With a population of about 1.27 million people [2], Mauritius is a melting pot of Indian, African, Chinese and European ethnic groups [3].

The climate in Mauritius is characterised by a tropical maritime climate, with two main seasons: summer and winter. From November to April, the summer season brings hot and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 25 °C to 35 °C. The winter season, from May to October, is cooler and drier, with temperatures between 15 °C and 25 °C [4]. This favourable climate supports a rich biodiversity, featuring around 700 species of flowering plants and unique animals such as the Mauritius kestrel, the pink pigeon, and the giant tortoise.

The Mauritian economy is diverse, with key sectors contributing to its growth. Tourism is a major industry, attracting visitors with its stunning beaches, luxury resorts and distinctive wildlife [5]. Historically, agriculture has been important, with sugarcane being the primary crop. In recent years, the information and communication technology (ICT) sector has also emerged as a significant contributor to economic development.

Despite its strengths, Mauritius faces several challenges. Economic diversification is necessary to reduce dependence on traditional sectors and foster new industries [6]. The country must address the issues of an aging population and provide job opportunities for young people. Environmental challenges are also prominent, with climate change posing a threat through rising sea levels and changing weather patterns. Additionally, coral reef degradation, pollution, overfishing, and deforestation are critical issues that need attention to preserve the island’s natural beauty and biodiversity [7].

General introduction / Introduction générale

Research and innovation ecosystem

Free education for all from primary to secondary and post-secondary level has played a major role in creating a literate and skilled human resource base for the country which is considered as one of its precious resources. Since its independence in 1968 when there was only one institution for tertiary education, namely the University of Mauritius [8], the post-secondary education sector in Mauritius has witnessed major changes.

To capitalise on its multi-cultural and bilingual human resource base, the foundation for making Mauritius into a knowledge hub and a regional centre of excellence for higher education was laid out in the beginning of the 21st century by the Government of the Republic of Mauritius [9]. The aim was to make knowledge hub the next pillar of the economy after sugar, textiles, tourism, financial services and ICT.

The higher education sector in Mauritius is relatively small and in a developing stage. The country has more than 40 higher education institutions (HEI) for a relatively small population of about 1.27 million [10]. Table 1 reflects the number of HEIs in Mauritius.

In Mauritius, research and innovation (R&I) are primarily regulated by the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC), established under the MRIC Act 2019. The MRIC advises the government on R&I matters, encourages private sector participation, and promotes the commercialization of research and development. The Act also established the National Research and Innovation Fund.

Table 1: Research and innovation ecosystem in Mauritius [10].
Institution Number
Public HEIs 9
Private HEIs 34

Overview of STI provisions in Key Frameworks

Mauritius has several key frameworks that promote science, technology, and innovation (STI) as drivers of economic and social development. These frameworks, including the Digital Transformation Blueprint, the National Innovation Framework, and the Mauritius Artificial Intelligence Strategy, aim to foster a culture of innovation, enhance the country’s technological capabilities, and ensure that STI benefits all citizens.

Key Frameworks and Provisions:

  • Digital Transformation Blueprint:

This blueprint emphasizes digital inclusion, equitable access to services, and the use of digital tools for various sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education. It aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and focuses on inclusive growth, innovation, resilience, and environmental sustainability.

  • National Innovation Framework (2018-2030):

This framework aims to create an innovation ecosystem by fostering collaboration between different levels (national, industry, corporate, and people) and promoting a strong research culture. It focuses on sustainability, creating an innovation culture, providing funding for innovative businesses, and improving living standards and job availability.

  • Mauritius Artificial Intelligence Strategy:

This strategy aims to position Mauritius as a leader in AI and other emerging technologies. It involves establishing an AI Council, developing a roadmap, and providing incentives for AI-related investments.

  • Digital Mauritius 2030 Strategic Plan:

This plan highlights the importance of digitalization and ICT as key drivers of economic growth and competitiveness. It emphasizes the need for continuous digital transformation to achieve a competitive advantage in the future.

  • Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy:

This policy, along with the National Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy 2030, provides a comprehensive framework for developing and implementing STI initiatives. It focuses on promoting research, innovation, and collaboration to support sustainable development and economic growth.

In Mauritius, key institutional actors in research and innovation (R&I) include –

  1. The Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science and Research
  2. The Ministry of Technology, Communication and Innovation
  3. The Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC)
  4. various universities and tertiary education institutions 
  5. Private sector and industry

R& I Infrastructure available at the following institutions:

  1. Albion Fisheries Research Centre (AFRC)
  2. Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (FAREI)
  3. Mauritius Oceanography Institute (MOI)
  4. Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Institute (MSIRI)
  5. Mauritius Institute of Biotechnology Ltd (MIBL)
  6. Mauritius Institute of Health (MIH)
  7. Mauritius Standards Bureau (MSB)
  8. Public Universities – University of Mauritius, University of Technology Mauritius, Université des Mascareignes (UdM), Open University of
  9. Mauritius, Academy of Design and Innovation, Polytechnics Mauritius
  10. Private Universities – JSS Academy, Middlesex University, Curtin University
  11. National Environmental Laboratory
  12. List of Accredited Entities (https://www.mauritas.org/entities.php)

R&I Public Entities / Structures R&I

There are also several research institutions within different ministries in Mauritius. A few of them are listed below:

  • Albion Fisheries Research Centre (AFRC)
  • Food and Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (FAREI)
  • Mauritius Oceanography Institute (MOI)
  • Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC)
  • Mauritius Sugarcane Industry Research Institute (MSIRI)
  • Higher Education Commission (HEC)
  • Mauritius Institute of Biotechnology Ltd (MIBL)
  • Mauritius Institute of Health (MIH)

Albion Fisheries Research Centre (AFRC)

The AFRC was established in 1981/1982 in Mauritius with assistance from the Government of Japan. It operates under the Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries. Its core focus lies in applied research, development and the management of marine living resources. Equipped with laboratories, hatcheries and a documentation unit, AFRC contributes significantly to aquaculture, marine conservation and the monitoring of fishing activities within the exclusive economic zone of Mauritius. Additionally, it provides expert guidance to policymakers, assists stakeholders in the fishing sector and engages in regional and international fisheries research collaborations [11].

FAREI is committed to fostering sustainable progress within the national agri-food system. It specialises in several key domains, including crop research, livestock research and extension services. The crop research division caters to the non-sugar crop sector by innovating cost-efficient technologies, introducing improved crop varieties and enhancing agricultural methods. Meanwhile, the livestock research division focuses on refining farming techniques, increasing production and aiding farmers in adding value to their products and improving marketing strategies. FAREI also provides training, disseminates agricultural knowledge, and collaborates on local and regional projects to support the agricultural sector [12].

MOI was established in January 2000 under the MOI Act (Act No. 24 of 1999) with the key objective of overseeing research and development efforts in oceanography. It undertakes both fundamental and applied research on marine resources and has accomplished notable achievements, including securing approximately 400,000 square kilometers of additional seabed area through a collaborative initiative with Seychelles, submitted to the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf. Situated in Albion, Mauritius, the institute is equipped with laboratory facilities and research divisions specialising in physical oceanography, chemistry, biology, marine geosciences and biotechnology [13].

The MRIC serves as the apex body for promoting research and innovation in Mauritius. Established on September 1, 2019, under the MRIC Act, the council operates under the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science and Research. Its mission is to advise the government on matters related to applied research, innovation and development, while fostering high-quality research and collaboration between academia and industry. MRIC offers various grant schemes, aimed at supporting innovative projects and enhancing the competitiveness of Mauritius [14].

The MSIRI was established in 1953 to advance the technical progress of the sugar industry in Mauritius. It functions under the Mauritius Cane Industry Authority, concentrating on research and development to boost the efficiency and competitiveness of the sugarcane industry. The goals of MSIRI encompass enhancing sugar productivity, maximising factory performance and investigating value-added products derived from sugarcane. The institute features well-equipped laboratories and operates experimental stations in various agro-climatic zones across Mauritius. Additionally, it collaborates internationally and offers consultancy services focused on sugarcane. [15].

HEC is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing and promoting higher education in Mauritius. It serves as the governing authority for monitoring and advancing higher education in Mauritius. HEC ensures the maintenance of quality and standards across higher education institutions, accredits academic programs and facilitates the recognition and equivalence of qualifications. Additionally, HEC offers scholarships and promotes research initiatives to strengthen the academic environment in Mauritius [16].

MIBL, established on October 28, 2021, aims to drive progress in the biotechnology sector in Mauritius. Its focus lies in promoting and expediting the production of pharmaceutical products, including vaccines and other essential drugs. MIBL engages in advanced research across various biotechnology fields and partners with regional institutions, esteemed universities and global organisations, such as the World Health Organisation. Committed to the development and commercialisation of locally-produced vaccines and pharmaceutical products, MIBL also supports the creation of medical devices, nutraceuticals and technology-driven applications, thereby contributing to the advancement of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries of Mauritius [17].

MIH, established in 1989 as a parastatal entity under the Ministry of Health and Quality of Life, is dedicated to training and research in the health sector and related fields. It provides continuing professional development programs for healthcare professionals, organises training workshops and undertakes research aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery in Mauritius. MIH also partners with international organisations, including the United Nations Population Fund, to further strengthen its initiatives [18].