The Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development (SPECD) Unit is a strategic component of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC). We connect HSRC researchers and research with national, regional, and international networks. Our work expands the Council’s global footprint and translates HSRC expertise into meaningful societal and policy impact across South Africa, Africa, and the world.
Strategic Partnerships establishes and manages collaborations, memoranda of understanding (MOUs), and knowledge networks that advance the HSRC’s research agenda. Through science diplomacy and internationalisation, it strengthens global knowledge exchange and supports international policy engagement.
External Capacity Development drives initiatives that build human and research capacity. This includes managing the HSRC Internship Programme—which provides unemployed STEM, Humanities, and Social Sciences graduates with practical workplace experience—alongside targeted training and knowledge-sharing opportunities.
