The Policy Action Network (PAN) helps government and civil society partners in South Africa develop and implement transformative public policies by connecting them with relevant research, data and people. 

What we do

We work with partners in four main areas: 

1. Evidence: We work with partners to map and synthesise research, reporting and evaluation material. This helps policy actors understand what current research says about possible interventions and outcomes, and helps them identify research gaps.
2. Data: We assist with identifying research, statistical, administrative and citizen-generated data to support decision-making, advise on data governance and provide training to encourage wider data use.
3. Networks: We support community and government-led networks of knowledge exchange for social action.
4. Communication: We work with partners to explore new ways of sharing and engaging with research evidence and data using digital and traditional media. 

The current focal policy areas are public health and gender, innovation and 4IR, climate resilience and local government.

Who we are

PAN is an initiative of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) in South Africa, supported by the Department of Science and Innovation. PAN was established in 2011 and has provided evidence support in a number of areas related to poverty alleviation and development.

Partner with us 

We welcome new ideas and proposals for collaboration so feel free to contact us by emailing info@policyaction.org.za. You should receive a reply within a day or two.