Stellenbosch University
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New online tool launched to showcase SU’s social impact
Author: Jorisna Bonthuys
Published: 18/10/2017

​​​A new online platform has been launched by Stellenbosch University (SU) to document and showcase its social impact in society. This follows after the release of the university’s Social Impact Strategic Plan and forms a key part of making this plan operational.

Joanne Williams, Management Information Officer: Social Impact, launched the Social Impact Knowledge Platform at the recent annual Social Impact Symposium. “This online platform is a knowledge management solution which will allow the SU to document its social impact; coordinate across initiatives; foster inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration for maximum impact; monitor and evaluate for feedback and improvement; and report on the university’s social impact initiatives for decision-making,” she said.

“The platform will showcase existing initiatives and identify new opportunities and new collaboration opportunities for those who want to get involved. It is a means to support and enhance the work of staff and in a meaningful way also serves as a social learning space to inspire and model good practice for social impact within the SU. Staff members can register a social impact profile on the platform, thereby building a portfolio of evidence along with their social impact initiatives of their work,” said Williams.

The platform has the same “look and feel” as the university’s main website, and users can directly link back to it. It has various search filters, a news archive and also visually illustrates the number of initiatives in different faculties. “The platform will showcase social impact initiatives, allow staff members to connect with each other and potentially work together on initiatives,” Williams said.

Currently, only US staff can upload information regarding social impact initiatives and opportunities on this platform. Staff members can indicate how their work contributes to the university’s seven development themes of education for all; employment and inclusive economic development; environment and sustainability; food security and health; resources and infrastructure; safety, security and good governance; and social and gender justice. These development themes link directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

During future phases of the tool’s development, external partners and students will also be able to access the platform directly.

Social impact at the SU is embodied in engaged learning and teaching, engaged research, engaged citizenship, special programmes, and partnerships. “The platform creates an enabling environment for SU’s social impact mandate,” explains Williams.

Staff members are invited to register their initiatives on this platform.

Visit www.sun.ac.za/si for more information.