The core business of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) is to conduct large-scale, policy-relevant, social-scientific projects for public-sector users, non-governmental organisations and international development agencies. We do this in partnership with researchers globally, but specifically in Africa. Our commitment to cutting-edge research which supports development nationally, in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and in Africa is evident, but it is our commitment to the dissemination of that research that demonstrates the remarkable and measurable impact of our work.

As the national social science council of South Africa, the HSRC wishes to serve as a knowledge hub to bridge the gap between research, policy and action; thus increasing the impact of research. This is achieved through collaboration with key constituencies, including government, other research organisations, multinational agencies, universities, non-government organisations, and donor and development organisations.

With a dedicated staff complement of almost 500, consisting of professional researchers, technical and administrative support staff, based in six offices in four different provinces across South Africa, the HSRC is well equipped to respond flexibly and comprehensively to current and emerging needs. Its six multi-disciplinary research programmes and research centres are focused on user needs. The following units make up the HSRC.