The past six months have been an exciting time for the LMIP, as our research starts informing and influencing the shape of the skills planning mechanism. Our work with DHET and other stakeholders has moved into a more intensive phase of engagement.
Given the breadth and scope of our research agenda, it is critical that we highlight the synergies across projects to develop a coherent and consistent intelligence base. To this end, all research teams gathered in Cape Town in February 2014 for a Research Colloquium, which proved to be a robust and stimulating space to identify emerging policy implications.
The colloquium occurred at an opportune time, as it provided an opportunity to inform the architecture of the proposed mechanism before it was presented at the second policy roundtable in March. The roundtable drew together key stakeholders in the skills planning arena and led to informed and intensive discussions on the ideal shape and functioning of the mechanism. A link to the report of this event may be found in section 4 below.
The emphasis on providing high-quality and cutting edge research to inform policymaking has meant a focus on dissemination and consultation to obtain critical feedback. We have organised a series of vibrant seminars that were attended by stakeholders from government and the academy. Researchers have used this platform as a means to enhance their research findings, and to identify policy implications.
The next few months will see increased emphasis on the dissemination of our research findings. We look forward to robust engagement as we head closer to finalising our proposal of a credible institutional skills planning mechanism for South Africa.
A number of activities are planned for the next six months. More information is contained on our website (lmip.org.za) and do make sure to stay up-to-date with our latest thinking and research on our Twitter feed (@LMIP_RSA).
