Systems Analysis for Action: Pathways for Bridging Science, Policy, and Society

Africa’s sustainability challenges—urban transitions, climate risk, and food and nutrition security—are tightly interconnected and cannot be solved in silos. This session, co-convened by NRF South Africa and IIASA, showcases how systems analysis integrates evidence across sectors, supports inclusive decision-making, and strengthens the science–policy–society interface to deliver actionable solutions.  Designed as a solutions-focused dialogue, the session features national science councils, government partners, researchers, and a journalist to highlight African-led pathways for embedding systems thinking into policy processes. Case spotlights will demonstrate practical applications—managing trade-offs, integrating cross-sectoral data, and co-producing policy-relevant outputs—followed by a moderated discussion on institutionalization and scaling.  Why now? Recent regional dialogues and capacity-building efforts have built momentum for systems approaches and policy engagement. SRI Africa provides an ideal platform to consolidate lessons, align partners, and identify concrete next steps for collaboration and uptake.  Participants will leave with: (1) practical frameworks and examples for systems-analysis–driven policy co-creation; (2) pathways for institutional capacity strengthening; and (3) a media engagement approach that enhances transparency, accountability, and public understanding. The session directly advances SRI’s emphasis on linking knowledge with actions, impacts, and solutions, and centers African leadership in shaping context-appropriate, scalable interventions.