What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to assess the public's science knowledge, attitudes, and engagement to foster a science-literate society.

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May 24, 2026Open Access

Highlights of the South African Public Relationship with Science: 2022 survey results

Key Points

The aim is to assess the public's science knowledge, attitudes, and engagement to foster a science-literate society.
Conducted a periodic survey to assess levels of science knowledge and engagement among South African adults.
Established indicators and sub-indicators to measure system-wide science engagement performance.
Collaborated with partners to promote science literacy and awareness.
Identified key indicators of public science engagement and awareness in South Africa.
Demonstrated progress towards the goal of a science-literate society based on survey responses.

Abstract

The Department of Science and Innovation, together with its partners, is responsible for promoting science engagement within the NSI. The latest White Paper on Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) built on previous initiatives by advocating for a science-literate and science-aware society, as well as for a renewed focus on science – society linkages (DST 2019a). To assess progress towards achieving the desired science-literate and science-aware society, the DSI first established a set of indicators to measure system-wide science engagement performance. Second, it adopted a set of sub-indicators to inform a periodic survey of the South African adult public to measure and monitor levels of science knowledge, attitudes, and engagement.

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