Connecting Science to Society: NRF strengthens science–media dialogue at WCSJ 2025

The National Research Foundation (NRF) co-hosted an interactive session titled People, Planet, and Possibility: Systems Science Meets Journalism for Wellbeing with the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) on 04 December 2025 at the World Conference of Science Journalists (WCSJ) in Pretoria. Led by science communicator, Lisa Palmer, Journalist in Residence at IIASA, the session brought together journalists and researchers to explore how systems science can support accurate, contextualised reporting on the interconnected challenges shaping human and planetary wellbeing.

Opening the session, Dr Sepo Hachigonta, Executive Head: Strategic Partnerships, Networking & Resourcing at the NRF, provided an overview of systems analysis work within South Africa and the region, highlighting initiatives coordinated through the Sub-Saharan African Regional Member Organisation (SSARMO) and the Sub-Saharan Systems Analysis Centre (SASAC). Dr Hachigonta emphasised the importance of systems thinking in informing evidence-based decision-making across sectors, as well as the value of evidence-informed reporting as societies grapple with complex issues such as climate change, demographic shifts, and sustainable development.

A central focus of the session was fostering direct dialogue between researchers and science journalists. Using a lightning-round and speed-networking format, scientists provided journalists with rapid insights into their research fields, followed by short rotational conversations designed to build understanding, trust, and future collaboration. This interactive approach highlighted the strategic importance of strengthening communication pathways between science and the media. Journalists gained access to new story leads, technical insight, and regional expertise, while researchers gained a deeper understanding of the opportunities and persistent barriers associated with communicating scientific findings to diverse audiences.

In her closing remarks, Lisa Palmer reflected on the value of cultivating enduring networks that enable journalists to translate complex systems research into clear and impactful public stories.

The session reaffirmed the significance of platforms that bring together researchers, research institutions, and communicators to enhance the visibility and accessibility of African science on the global stage. Participants highlighted the need for continued collaboration through partnerships such as those between the NRF and IIASA, which expand regional capacity in systems analysis and strengthen South Africa’s leadership within international scientific communities.