RESEARCH FUNDING Organisational communication Science Communication branding/profile announcements awards opportunities budgets policies procedures performance statistics Science Communication research outputs / development new findings / progress impact of funding case studies success stories focus on the research content / aims of areas funded

Science Communication a separate function with a dedicated budget independent application procedures

Science Communication should “support” the focus areas “niche” = research funded by the NRF emphasis on pre-determined priority areas

PRINCIPLES The researchers are the “real” communicators – must be enabled, mobilised, encouraged (with teams, students, expert help) Strive for dialogue / two-way communication / interactive model

Scope / Rationale Democratisation of knowledge / promotion of scientific literacy Interest youth to increase number of students in priority fields of S&T Promote awareness of impact of NRF funded research to grow support for NRF and science / research in general Mandated by the NRF Act and strong expectation from NRF Board & community

Objectives Measurable impact in priority areas for human resource development Increase in the number of S&T students – linked to targeted efforts / areas Increased media coverage / popular articles / broadcasts - linked to this programme Develop capacity for science communication in the research community – specifically NRF grant-holders (grants, training, mentorship)

Long term goals: A culture of communication in research, and skilled science communicators Dynamic interaction and dialogue between science and society

Science communication is developing rapidly around the globe Linkages, synergies with national and international players Potential to attract funding!

Key strategic areas Funding – mobilising, enabling researchers to communicate science Media networking Communication training and skills Corporate science communication initiatives and national contributions Science communication networks NRF web and print highlights Evaluation and recognition!

LINKAGES STRATEGIC ADVICE – to determine priorities EVALUATION – criteria and evaluation of impact RESEARCH INFORMATION AND KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT – access to research outputs and impacts IT – for access to grant management information KNOWLEDGE NETWORKS AND PARTNERSHIPS – links to other players and potential partners; to develop and grow the programme through networking and exchange of expertise RESEARCH CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT – to identify role models, success stories, priority training, to link with research training

WAY FORWARD A new, dedicated function in the NRF Develop funding programme (eligibility, targets, marketing, procedures, monitoring, etc) Prioritise and plan activities – synergy with other players! Develop media networks and linking strategies Network of science communicators in SA Expert input and accelerated development with help from science communication networks abroad