Join us at the upcoming conference, “Engaged research as a pathway to bridging knowledge and society,” where researchers, practitioners, community members, and policymakers will converge to explore innovative approaches to engaged research (ER) that address pressing societal challenges. This event will serve as a dynamic platform to discuss both established and emerging methodologies, practices, challenges, and opportunities in ER.
Visit the conference website: https://engagedresearch.hsrc.ac.za/
ER provides a helpful set of principles and frameworks through which researchers can meaningfully interact with other research producers, research users, and beneficiaries. It addresses complex societal challenges by fostering inclusivity, mutual respect, and the cocreation of knowledge and engagement.
Conference objectives
Identify and overcome barriers: Examine obstacles hindering ER, such as university ethics approval structures that may not accommodate engaged research, and strategise effective solutions.
Promote knowledge exchange: Facilitate the sharing of methodologies, approaches, and best practices in ER to enhance collective understanding and application.
Foster collaborative networks: Encourage networking among academia, community organisations, industry, and government to build partnerships for future ER projects.
Showcase impactful case studies: Present successful ER projects that demonstrate tangible real-world benefits and value.
Operationalise ER in diverse contexts: Consolidate insights on implementing ER across various settings to maximise its impact.
Key themes
The conference will delve into several themes related to engaged research, providing a comprehensive exploration of its multifaceted nature.
| Theme | Description |
|---|---|
| Co-Creation and Participatory Research Approaches | This theme will explore a range of methods, practices, and tools for involving stakeholders in all stages of the research and dissemination processes. |
| Impactful Community Partnerships | This theme will delve into case studies and best practices on building long-term, mutually beneficial partnerships with communities. |
| Policy and Engaged Research | This theme will explore how engaged research influences policy and contributes to societal change. |
| Engaged Research in the Digital Age | This theme will examine the role of technology in enhancing the reach and accessibility of engaged research. |
| Engaged Research for Epistemic Justice, Social Justice and Equity | This theme will address power dynamics in engaged research, ethical considerations and inclusivity challenges. |
| Ethical and Inclusive Research | This theme will address power dynamics in engaged research, ethical considerations and inclusivity challenges. |
| Research Translation and Knowledge Brokering | This theme will explore approaches and strategies for ensuring research findings are accessible and useful for relevant audiences. |
| Impact Measurement and Evaluation | This theme will discuss frameworks and tools for assessing the impact measurement and evaluation of engaged research. |
By participating, you’ll have the opportunity to showcase successful projects, share best practices, and reflect on barriers to ER, inspiring actionable strategies that advance inclusive, impactful, and transformative research efforts for the betterment of society. This conference aims to inspire participants to deepen their commitment to collaborative and impactful research.
We look forward to your participation in this enriching event, where together, we can foster meaningful partnerships, enhance the co-creation of knowledge, and promote the integration of academic inquiry with society-driven priorities.
Conference structure
The conference will include a mix of keynote presentations, panel discussions, interactive workshops, and networking sessions
Keynote speakers
Renowned experts in engaged research and for example, community-based participatory research
(CBPR) will share insights on the latest trends and developments.
Panels will feature diverse voices from academia, government, and community organizations to
discuss specific challenges and opportunities in engaged research.
Interactive workshops will ensure participants will have opportunities to learn practical skills, tools, and methodologies for engaged research.
Selected projects demonstrating significant impact through engaged research will be
presented.
Facilitated networking sessions will allow participants to connect and explore potential
collaborations.
Important dates
First announcement and save the date: 31 March 2025
Call for Abstracts: 07 April 2025
Abstract Deadline: extended to 30 June 2025
Abstract Decision 15 July 2025
Conference registration now open.
General enquiries: engagedresearch@hsrc.ac.za
Scientific committee
The conference’s Scientific Committee comprises distinguished professionals from academia and research institutions, each bringing specialised expertise to the event. The committee includes experts in public science communication and engagement, civil society research, global health, communication studies, community engagement, and social sciences project management. This diverse composition ensures a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to the conference’s scientific programme.