1. 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

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

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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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)

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

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

9. 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!

10. 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

11. 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