Welcome to Research at SPU

Aligned with the university’ s Strategic Plan (2025–2029)’ s Goal 1, whose strategic objective is to advance and increase research, innovation and postgraduate capabilities in all Faculties and related academic activities, SPU encourages research that draws from and impacts our local community, while contribution to National development goals, and to making an impact in global knowledge. This endeavour requires working formal and structured partnerships with private and public institutions and community-based institutions.

Working with our partners and stakeholders, the Research division provides space for impactful, visible and globally recognised research in the 7 priority areas, identified by the Plan as;

Desert and Arid Region Studies
Indigenous Knowledge and Heritage Studies
Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Skills Development
Health Systems and Wellness
Education
Technological Advancement and Data Studies
Just Energy Transition

With pioneering research centres across our four faculties, a surge in innovation and technology transfer support, and growing collaborations with key partners, SPU’s research is striving towards impact, visibility and global contribution. The University continues to provide research enhancement support, including international mobility, Innovation and Technology Transfer and collaboration to advance research excellence. This growth is also reflected in the increasing collaborative research initiatives, the seniorisation of researchers (including NRF rating) as well as growth in visiting research positions, postgraduate research and postdoctoral opportunities.