Research week
Nelson Mandela University hosted their second annual Research Week on 11-15 September 2023 as part of their continued effort to foster engagement and partnership to contribute to the research culture within the institution. The event welcomed 457 registered attendees, 21 exhibition stands (including SACO) and boasted an impressive programme that featured a variety of experts from various academic fields. Amongst them was Dr. Phil Mjwara - the Director General for the Department of Science and Innovation, Prof. Pumla Gqola and Prof. Tebogo Moja, to name a few.
The Observatory was invited by the university’s office for Research, Innovation and Internationalisation to speak on the third day during their Revitalising The Humanities And Fostering Trans disciplinarity session. Executive Director, Ms. Unathi Lutshaba, discussed the future of arts and humanities and the value of South Africa’s Cultural, Creative and Sport sectors – an important discussion that sits at the nexus of the overall objectives of the observatory and the growing importance of the humanities from a practical and theoretical perspective.
On day five, during the closing session, Ms. Lutshaba spoke about her reflections concerning the themes discussed during the week and emphasised the need for the revitalisation of the humanities. She highlighted the value of including the arts and humanities in discussions surrounding science, technology, engineering and maths within academic institutions.
An opportunity to participate in these events provides SACO with yet another platform to further champion the importance of developing a comprehensive information system; one that not only assists in policy-relevant research and knowledge sharing, but also continues to enhance capacity and importance in the cultural and creative industries.
GOVERNMENT strategic foresight is a powerful thing when it takes flight. Take the Mzansi Golden Economy Strategy (2011) – which gave birth to the South African Cultural Observatory (SACO), hosted by Nelson Mandela University since 2015 – for example.
READ MORE
On Mandela Day, Gelvandale High School hostel received assistance from the South African Cultural Observatory, Nelson Mandela University, and other various organizations.
READ MORE
The South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) took part in a discussion with the stakeholders in the Museum industry on the professionalization of heritage in South Africa. The discussion was aimed at finding ways to professionalize the work Museums do in SA. The Museum stakeholders would like their work to be qualified by SAQA so that when they enroll students, they (students) can come out with a qualification that is graded.
READ MORE
As part of its efforts of disseminating its research work, and engaging the various CCI stakeholders, the South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) presented a variety of research reports to the youth from Masinyusane Development Organization, a registered non-profit organization dedicated to the upliftment and development of disadvantaged young South Africans.
READ MORE
Cultural and sports impact on the economy can and should be measured, valued
GOVERNMENT strategic foresight is a powerful thing when it takes flight. Take the Mzansi Golden Economy Strategy (2011) – which gave birth to the South African Cultural Observatory (SACO), hosted by Nelson Mandela University since 2015 – for example.
Minister Zizi Kodwa unveils new award ceremony: “The South African Creative Arts Awards”
The South African Creative Arts Awards will be the be most desired recognition and cultural recognition in the South African creative industry. The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture intends to hold the South African Creative Arts Awards annually.
Honouring Mandela - A Day To Give
On Mandela Day, Gelvandale High School hostel received assistance from the South African Cultural Observatory, Nelson Mandela University, and other various organizations.
SAMA Professionalisation Workshop 21 - 22 August 2023
The South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) took part in a discussion with the stakeholders in the Museum industry on the professionalization of heritage in South Africa. The discussion was aimed at finding ways to professionalize the work Museums do in SA. The Museum stakeholders would like their work to be qualified by SAQA so that when they enroll students, they (students) can come out with a qualification that is graded.
Spring into heritage – culture helps us leap ahead
KNOWING where we come from and who we are is what culture is. The repetition of rituals, beliefs, practices, and how we share knowledge is culture in motion.
