The HSRC’s vision is to be a national, regional and global leader in social science and humanities research and dissemination in the interests of a just and equal society. Therefore, our work is focused on major developmental challenges in South Africa and Africa.
We use our unique knowledge-production abilities to contribute to policy development and programmes on poverty alleviation, measures to reduce inequality, and innovations for employment creation.
Our focused and consolidated research programme is structured around divisions and centres that respond to these national priorities.
The HSRC contributes to developing the capabilities of South Africans by establishing itself as a trusted and engaged partner within scientific communities and civil society. By forging active collaborations in the scientific community, it pools resources and provides complementary research to other research disciplines.
We prioritise cross-stakeholder dialogue and conversation with civil society organisations and with corporate and academic institutions in the country and across the region.
The HSRC endeavours to foster greater inclusion of communities in the research process. We strive to broaden our understanding of local issues by inviting community members to participate in research projects from the outset. Through ongoing collaborations, the HSRC aims to enhance scientific understanding and stimulate community-led innovation.
Finally, we rely on policy makers and implementing agents, particularly the government, for the uptake and use of our knowledge products for social change. Therefore, one of our priorities is to build a consolidated relationship of trust and influence with the government to guide and inform policy.
Committed to the constitutional state and the health of democracy in South Africa, this division provides research, implementation and advocacy support to build a capable, ethical and developmental state, strengthen social cohesion, and create safe, inclusive and resilient communities.
The Public Health, Societies and Belonging (PHSB) division conducts transdisciplinary, intersectional, policy and programme-relevant research to improve health, well-being and promote a socially just and cohesive society.
The Equitable Education and Economies (EEE) division undertakes research to transform educational outcomes and increase economic participation. We work to understand educational performance and improve learning for those from unequal starting points, and interrogate social, spatial and structural obstacles to economic participation.
The Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators conducts surveys and analyses data on science, technology and innovation. It has a rich database of longitudinal trend data on research, development and innovation for use by policymakers and researchers.
