SACO - KDI Report on National Book Week
Literacy and reading is the lifeblood of any modern society. South Africa’s reading skills could be improved substantially. Books followed by electronic media are the most common channel that are used in society to read today. Reading will not only approve literacy but will also contribute to personal development, socio-economic development, nation building and even social cohesion. It is therefore critical that South Africa must increase its literacy and levels of reading if the country is to achieve the vision set out in the National Development Plan. During his State of the Nation Address on 20 June 2019 president Ramaphosa included: “Our schools will have better educational outcomes and every 10 year old will be able to read for meaning” as one of government’s five fundamental goals. 
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.
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.
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.
