Falling Walls Engage Hub South Africa

Connecting South African and international perspectives on science engagement

Hub focus

The Falling Walls Engage Hub South Africa was launched in November 2022 in Cape Town with the goal of bringing together South and Southern African perspectives on science engagement. The Hub seeks to advance citizen science with a focus on planetary health, community-based knowledge and inclusive research practices. In partnership with the University of the Western Cape, the Hub operates at the intersection of academic research, public participation and environmental stewardship.

Key priority areas

The priorities of the Falling Walls Engage Hub South Africa are strongly centred around science engagement, planetary health and social justice. The Hub aims to connect scientists, researchers, students, policymakers and local communities to address urgent societal and environmental challenges. Strong emphasis is also placed upon community-based science engagement, with a major goal being to take scientific knowledge out of academic institutions and into communities. Finally, the Hub is committed to equity and inclusion in science, amplifying diverse voices in science and promoting access to STEM education for all.

Local relevance

The Hub addresses issues that are directly connected to its South African location, including water and food security, healthcare access, biodiversity, sustainable agriculture and social justice. Community engagement is also a key priority for the Hub, as, through its outreach work, it aims to address real societal needs while also recognising the importance of indigenous knowledge systems and local lived experiences.

About the Hub

Location and network

The Hub is based in Cape Town and managed by Jacqueline Goldin, Associate Professor at the University of the Western Cape. As part of the global Falling Walls Engage Hub network, the Hub connects local researchers, universities, activists, and community organisations with partners across Africa and around the world. In addition, the Hub nurtures its partnerships with institutions such as the University of the Western Cape, the Berlin School of Public Engagement and Open Science, and other Engage Hubs in countries including Kenya, Mexico, Japan, and Australia.