Bridging the Gap Between Science and Society Through the Science Shop Model

In pursuit of a society that critically engages with science and technology, participatory research action grants have been awarded to local public universities under a ‘unique’ Science Shop model in support of the strategic imperatives of the Science Engagement Strategy (SES). This Science Shop initiative is funded by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and forms part of the systemwide science engagement programme that seeks to build a society that is scientifically aware and literate, culminating in publics that do not only participate in scientific dialogues, but are also able to confidently form and express independent opinions on science issues.

To encourage universities to pursue participatory research action agenda, the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (NRFSAASTA) sanctioned research grants to the University of Cape Town, Durban University of Technology, University of the Western Cape, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, North West University and University of Pretoria. The projects, which started in September 2022, vary in terms of length, from one to three years and have a total budget that is over R10 million over this period.