The Public Policy Hub (PPH) at the University of Pretoria (UP) is transforming how academic research shapes public policy by forging high-impact partnerships with South Africa's Department of Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation (DPME). This collaboration is driving evidence-based reforms that directly address critical societal challenges, proving that research is not just for academic journals – it’s a powerful tool for real-world change.

On 6 June 2023, the PPH and DPME signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bridge the gap between academia and public policy. The partnership enables researchers to contribute data-driven insights to inform policymaking, while ensuring their work meets academic publication requirements. Building on this MoU, the 2024 academic year marked a major step forward. The DPME identified eight research themes aligned with South Africa’s policy priorities, which were distributed by the PPH to UP academics through the respective faculty deans' offices, inviting them to engage in joint research projects. Following strong interest, two ground-breaking research projects are now underway.

1. Climate change & smallholder farmers: Financing resilience

The first research project tackles one of South Africa’s most pressing challenges – the impacts of climate change on smallholder farmers (SHFs), who form the backbone of the country’s food security and rural employment. UP researchers are developing tools to

• better understand the influence of climate change and climate policy on SHF's,
• connect farmers, policymakers, and financial institutions with key climate information and resources; and
• enhance SHFs’ ability to adapt to climate change.

This research is also investing in the next generation by supporting PhD and master’s degree students, ensuring a sustainable pipeline of expertise to tackle future climate challenges.

2. Addressing citizen dissatisfaction with local government services

The second project focuses on why citizens are increasingly dissatisfied with local government service delivery in Gauteng Province. A UP researcher, in collaboration with the University of the Witwatersrand, is using spatial data analytics to uncover

• key drivers of dissatisfaction and their regional variations;
• global best practices in service delivery performance; and
• actionable policy recommendations to improve basic service delivery at the municipal level.

Findings will be shared in academic publications and practical policy briefs, ensuring that research insights translate into real improvements for citizens.

These projects showcase the transformative power of research partnerships. By working with the DPME, UP researchers gain access to essential policy frameworks, datasets, and governmental platforms to align their work with national development priorities.

Are you a researcher looking to make a difference?

If you are passionate about co-producing transdisciplinary, reform-relevant research that informs evidence-based policymaking, the PPH provides a platform to bring your expertise into projects that shape public policy and improve lives. Through existing MoUs with DPME, the City of Tshwane, the City of Johannesburg, and other public institutions, you can contribute research that drives meaningful reforms and real impact.

Together, we can bridge the gap between research and policymaking to tackle South Africa’s most pressing challenges.

For more information or to explore collaboration opportunities, contact:

Prof Nara Monkam

Email: [email protected]
Tel: 012 420 3461

Mr Wandile Xaba

Email: [email protected]
Tel: 012 420 2413

Join us in making research work for people, for policy, and for progress!