research

South Africa is a diverse country, yet most of its people see themselves as South African first, according to Brand South Africa's latest Domestic Perceptions Research. They also view themselves in a positive light and believe that media is a little too critical about the nation.

Coming ahead of the country’s annual commemoration of Freedom Month, Brand South Africa’s Domestic Perceptions Research shows that being South African is a significant element of individual and national identity. Over 80% of 2 536 respondents say they are extremely proud to be South African.

Premised on its mandate to build South Africa’s nation brand reputation, Brand South Africa has over the past year continued with its SA Inc research project which aims to assess South Africa’s profile, impact, and reputation in peer African markets. Brand South Africa has, in the past year, conducted research in Senegal, Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola.

Brand South Africa and the South African Research Chair Initiative in African Diplomacy is hosting a roundtable on South Africa relations with fellow African countries at the University of Johannesburg. Based on Brand South Africa's SA Inc research project, the findings that will be shared will provide a holistic view of South Africa's impact on the continent.

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research was on hand at South Africa's national annual science festival this week to encourage young South Africans to get into the fields of science and technology, and to showcase its fascinating work.

Human development in South Africa is steadily rising, according to the United Nations Development Programme. In its 2015 Human Development Index (HDI), which ranks 188 countries, South Africa is improving in life expectancy at birth, average years of schooling and annual income per person. Presented here are some of the facts and figures from the index.

With the theme "Driving South Africa’s Industrial Development Agenda", South Africa is to host its first Economic Research Advisory Network conference in East London later in March to find ways to boost the country's economy.

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and the Southern Ocean Carbon and Climate Observatory are using robotic gliders to track what happens in the ocean. Their work will help with research, which could contribute positively to responding to climate change and the "blue" economy.

The South African Water Research Commission has launched a website that teaches people about being water wise. One of the messages is that this includes taking action to solve any water problems, as well as respecting water and all life. You can also work out your water footprint.

On Wednesday 18 November Brand South Africa and Business Report will host a breakfast dialogue to announce South Africa's performance in the 2015 Anholt Nation Brand Index. The Nation Brand Index is the only analytical ranking of the world's national images and reputations.