Editor’s note
In this edition of the HSRC Review, we feature research and reflections on challenges in South Africa and across the continent, reminding us how socially grounded research can illuminate hidden struggles and point to more equitable futures.
Cape Town’s recognition of small-scale rental housing, influenced by HSRC work, could expand affordable options and township economies. We discuss disaster risks from rapid urbanisation, AI’s potential for better governance, and youth challenges, including bullying in schools and the value of transformative climate education.
On science and innovation, studies track how physics breakthroughs reach society, explore attitudes to science across demographics, and call for African-rooted innovation indicators. Health research shows women face greater psychological distress linked to education, employment, and HIV status, requiring gender-sensitive interventions.
We also cover HSRC work on the Political Funding Act, and conclude with reviews of two HSRC Press books—one on African feminisms, the other on peace and development.
We hope you enjoy this edition and welcome your feedback.
Warm regards,
The HSRC Review team
Featured articles from the Review
The HSRC is committed to the dissemination of research-based information. One of the vehicles for this activity is its quarterly magazine, the HSRC Review, which contains accessible articles of recent research outputs, expert opinion and success stories of collaborative projects.
The HSRC Review assists the organisation in adhering to its mandate to serve the public purpose. It informs the making and monitoring of effective policy, helps to evaluate its implementation, and sparks public debate by disseminating research results.
The magazine is produced as an electronic version and distributed to about 2 000 subscribers. Readers include parliamentarians; directors and heads of government departments; funders and donors; development organisations; NGOs; the diplomatic community; national and international research institutions; and universities and schools.