HSRC Connect | Ep 17 | From Research to Impact: Empowering Scholars in the Engaged Research Movement скачать в хорошем качестве

HSRC Connect | Ep 17 | From Research to Impact: Empowering Scholars in the Engaged Research Movement

The group discussion at the Engaged Research Conference at Birchwood brought together emerging African scholars reflecting on what engaged research means in practice across Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia and South Africa. Dr Chimwemwe Phiri (Malawi School of Government) highlighted how universities can act as agents of community transformation in contexts of climate change, stressing co-created, grassroots adaptation solutions and stronger university–community–policy partnerships. Ms. Queen Chinozvina (University of Zimbabwe) focused on spatial planning and housing policies, showing how urban policies often marginalise the poor, remain largely top-down and performative, and how communities in informal settlements experience policy as displacement rather than protection. Mr. Suzyika Nyimbili (University of the Free State) examined the role of higher education in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage in Zambia, using participatory methods such as photovoice and the capability approach to centre students, communities and cultural experts in knowledge-making. Across the discussion they unpacked co-creation, equity and power; the gap between academic research and policy; over-researched but under-served communities; and the constraints of short-term, inflexible funding. They also emphasised the value of regional networks, mentorship and flexible funding for emerging researchers, and noted how the HSRC conference itself was transformative—especially in amplifying women’s voices and building confidence to take engaged research, institutional reform and new collaborations back into their home countries.