About Us
The Institute for Social Development (ISD) is a postgraduate hub for teaching and research in Development Studies. We equip students, scholars, and practitioners with the skills to analyse complex social change and to design evidence-based solutions for a more just society.
The ISD creates an interactive environment where students, lecturers, and researchers collaborate to engage in real-world challenges. Field visits, internships, and visit from activists and professionals underpin our students’ learning experience and empower them to apply what they learn to real situations. Our teaching and research remain committed to a transformational agenda, as we aim to make them collaborative, participatory, and hands-on. As a result, our graduates are ready to lead, influence policy, and drive positive change.
To be the leading institute of postgraduate teaching, research, training and advisory services on issues of policy and practical concern in the public, NGOs and private sectors.
To generate applicable social and economic development knowledge and encourage the utilization of research findings in postgraduate teaching, shaping the theory and practice in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).
We welcome participation from all—irrespective of race, gender, ethnicity, age or background. Guided by equity, we aim for equal access and opportunity, and we recognise that excellence in Development Studies depends on broad participation and diverse perspectives.
Our goal is not only to award degrees but to cultivate graduates who can think critically, act ethically, and lead change in their communities and organisations.
Acting Director; DSTI-NRF-Sasol Foundation SARChI Chair in Local and Regional Economic Development
DAAD Lecturer in Development Studies
Extraordinary Professor; Research Affiliate; SARChl Chair in Social Protection
Director of the DSTI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Food Security (CoE-FS), affiliated to ISD
Professor and Postgraduate Coordinator
Extraordinary Professor
Senior Lecturer
Senior Lecturer
Senior Lecturer
Administrative Officer
Senior Officer (Information Technology); Commissioner of Oaths.
Postgraduate Supervisor
Adjunct Professor
Lecturer
ISD collaborates with organisations across sectors to combine research, teaching and practice. Partners strengthen our work through funding, joint research and knowledge exchange.
Selected international partners include:
Protecting the rights and wellbeing of refugees and stateless people.
Political and economic union of member states supporting knowledge, policy and research collaboration.
A global network advancing interdisciplinary research on children’s rights, development and wellbeing.
A pan-African body promoting independent, multidisciplinary research and knowledge production.