AU Trade Report 2018 final with summary
In 2016, SACO developed the Framework for the Monitoring and Evaluation of Publically Funded Arts, Culture and Heritage. The Framework was developed specifically to evaluate the impact of cultural festivals and events which had received funding from the Mzansi’s Golden Economy (MGE) programme. This report seeks to align the SACO Framework with the Government-wide Monitoring and Evaluation (GWM&E) System, as well as the M&E strategies of the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC). In addition, the report briefly describes the SACO Framework and, based on its application to a wide variety of cultural events and festivals, demonstrates how it measures cultural values and produces indicators that can feed into evaluations of the impact of the MGE programme. The SACO Framework operates at a different level from the GWM&E System, as it is specifically focused on improving the impact assessments of cultural festivals and events which had received MGE funding. These events and festivals have t 
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.
