In the past, researchers and scientists could comfortably work in their own silos without needing to interact outside of their boundaries. Today, however, global challenges have become increasingly complex and the call for scholars to work collaboratively across disciplines and beyond academia has never been louder. 

It was in response to this call that a group of African STARS fellows gathered over two days to participate in the “Silos to Synergy: A Course in Transdisciplinary Practice” workshop presented by Public Squares Initiative. The initiative is a research development programme at Stellenbosch University and aims to foster and build capacity for impactful and socially engaged research. 

Transdisciplinary Research (TDR) implores scholars to collaborate across disciplines and with various stakeholders such as policymakers, NGOs, and community members to ensure that research outcomes are meaningful, contextual, and applicable.  Taking place from 27 – 28 October 2025 at the Stellenbosch University National Institute for Theoretical and Computational Sciences (NITheCS) the workshop introduced participants to the basic principles and practices of TDR. 

Day 1 of the workshop set the stage with an introductory lecture presented by followed by an activity where fellows examined real-world case studies to determine whether a project incorporated TDR or not. Through interactive activities, fellows were also introduced to various phases involved in bringing TDR projects to life, how to effectively form TDR teams and the value of stakeholder engagement, particularly focusing on identifying key stakeholders across sectors.

Day 2 of the workshop shifted towards creativity and applied practise. Participants learnt how to use various creative strategies such as storytelling, body mapping, and photovoice to effectively engage stakeholders, particularly policymakers. Through reflective group discussions and a creative project, participants were challenged to think critically about how to engage policymakers and ensure their research drives impactful, meaningful, and context-specific policies.

Across the world there is need for science to be relevant and meaningful for societies. By equipping participants with essential knowledge and practical skills, this workshop highlighted an important message that research with impact can only be achieved when scholars work in synergy – collaborating and engaging with each other and with key stakeholders. 

Participant feedback 

“I wanted to extend my sincere thanks for the incredible Transdisciplinary Research Workshop hosted by the Public Squares Initiative last week. It was one of the most intellectually stimulating and human-centered learning spaces I’ve experienced. I left feeling re-energised about what genuine co-creation between disciplines and communities can achieve.” – Fezokuhle Khumalo 

“As a researcher with a profound passion for transdisciplinary research, I enjoyed mostly participating in practical, hands-on sessions and interactive group activities that deepened my understanding of transdisciplinary research, especially the stakeholder mapping and community engagement role play, which encouraged collaboration and real-world problem solving.​​” – Anonymous