Systems Analysis and Africa

The world is changing at an unprecedented rate and is facing significant challenges of rapid globalization, shifts in economic power, environmental change, and geopolitical conflicts, while undergoing a digital revolution involving emerging technological breakthroughs that have the potential to change how we work, live, and govern. In addition to these challenges, society is also experiencing a period of increasing inequality, global social injustice, and the questioning of scientific processes.

 Considering the interconnected nature of social, economic and environmental challenges, systems analysis – an integrated approach for research and investigation that enables synergies and trade-offs among potential solutions – is an ideal research approach to better understand and provide policymakers and relevant stakeholders with potential strategies to address regional and global challenges.

In Africa, countries face regional challenges including poverty, hunger, the competition for natural resources, transboundary issues, environmental problems, and the need for effective sustainability strategies. The Systems Analysis and Africa conference, co-hosted by the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), the National Research Foundation, South Africa (NRF), the Department of Science and Innovation of the Republic of South Africa (DSI) and the South African Systems Analysis Center (SASAC), will explore how the multilateral application of systems analysis can be used to address those challenges. 

The conference will leverage the strong relationship between South African and IIASA expertise in systems analysis methodologies to discuss and analyze transformative approaches aimed at increasing the impact and effectiveness of its investments. Mechanisms to be discussed will include capacity development programs, global research networks and research for development and regional challenges. Registration and a call for posters  will open soon.

Last edited: 12 October 2019