HSRC Connect is a dynamic and innovative audio-visual production unit within the Communication and Engagement department of the HSRC’s Impact Centre, aimed at delivering high-quality content for various platforms. Our mission is to create compelling and visually stunning productions that engage, entertain, and inspire HSRC staff, stakeholders and the greater research community.
THE HSRC CONNECT is centred around social sciences. The Connect aims to:
- shed light on the rich diversity and unique socio-cultural dynamics of the African continent and,
- captivate a wide audience to promote the work of the HSRC.
Episode 1: The value of AI in the informal sector
The informal sector plays a significant role in economies worldwide, providing livelihoods for millions of people, particularly in developing countries. However, the informal sector faces numerous challenges, including limited access to resources, financial services, and market opportunities. In this panel discussion, we will explore the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to address these challenges and create positive impacts in the informal sector.
Episode 2: Filicide in South Africa: Understanding causes, impact, and prevention strategies
Filicide, the act of a parent taking the life of their own child, is a deeply distressing and complex social issue with profound implications for families and communities. This panel discussion aims to shed light on the phenomenon of filicide in South Africa, exploring its causes, the impact on individuals and society, and discussing potential prevention strategies. By bringing together experts, practitioners, and community voices, we seek to foster a comprehensive understanding and promote dialogue on this critical issue.
Episode 3: The value of research, development and innovation for inclusion and sustainability in South Africa
How can research, development and innovation be oriented to inclusion and sustainability in South Africa? What is the role for societal role-players such as climate lobbyists, government, business, universities/academia, venture capital, and labour?
In this episode, UJ Professor of Economics, Erika Kraemer-Mbula, talks to a multi-disciplinary panel of experts, including Dr Crispian Olver (CEO: Presidential Climate Commission), Prof. Reza Daniels, Southern African Labour and Development Research Unit Dr Phethiwe Matutu, Universities South Africa Shameela Soobramoney, National Business Initiative Ketso Gordhan, South African SME Fund Imraan Patel, DSI
Episode 4: Reclaiming Invisible Disabilities
The Reclaiming Invisible Impairments and Disabilities (REIID) project is still in its early stages at the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC). Focusing on disabilities and impairments that are not clearly visible to the human eye, REIID wants to explore the experiences people have of these impairments, hold open conversations and conduct research to find out how people with these disabilities can be supported to feel more seen, understood, and that they belong.
We explore the effects of having a disability/impairment that is not obvious to the human eye, and the lived experiences for those individuals. They participants discussed why awareness of invisible impairments and disabilities is important and what the effects of a lack of awareness have been.
Episode 5: Exploring the Viability of Political Party Coalitions in South Africa
Coalition politics has become increasingly prevalent in South Africa’s political landscape, shaping the dynamics of governance and representation. As the country grapples with diverse challenges, understanding public sentiment towards political party coalitions is essential for fostering informed decision-making and promoting democratic engagement. The panel discussion aimed to delve into the nuances of public opinion on political party coalitions in South Africa, exploring various perspectives and implications for the future of governance.
Episode 6: Exploring Poetic Inquiry as a research methodology
Poetic Inquiry is defined as Poetry as research, Poetry for research, and Poetry in research. In this episode of the HSRC Connect, Kirsten Deane (HSRC Science Writing intern) sits down with Professor Heidi Van Rooyen, the HSRC Impact Centre’s previous Group Executive, to discuss the use, impact, and purpose of Poetic Inquiry.
Professor Van Rooyen shares her experience of Poetic Inquiry and reads her work.
Episode 7: The HSRC’s SABSSM Project
The HSRC working together with partners, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), the University of Cape Town (UCT) and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), completed the sixth national HIV household survey (known as SABSSM VI) in 2023. The survey marks 20 years of the series, with the first survey commissioned and funded by former President Nelson Mandela through the Nelson Mandela Foundation in 2002. Since its inaugural survey, local and international donors have collaborated with the HSRC to sustain this important national resource.
Panelists: Prof Khangelani Zuma; Dr Pelagia Murangandi; Mr Patrick Mdletshe
Facilitator: Dr Candice Groenewald
