The 4th Conference of the South African Development Studies Association (SADSA), held on October 12, 2015, at NMMU’s School of Economics, Development, and Tourism, was a vibrant gathering of scholars, practitioners, and policymakers dedicated to exploring critical themes in development studies.
The day commenced with an insightful plenary session in the main conference hall, featuring addresses by prominent figures including Prof Julian May and Prof Peter Stewart. Prof May’s keynote, “Troubled Times: What Role for Development Studies,” set the tone for discussions on addressing contemporary challenges through academic inquiry and policy intervention.
Parallel sessions followed, covering diverse topics such as rural development, BRICS-Africa relations, state reform, economic restructuring, security, conflict, and climate change adaptation. Noteworthy presentations included discussions on war economies, gender-based violence, and the impact of authoritarian rule on governance in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The conference provided a platform for robust intellectual exchange, highlighted by engaging debates and the sharing of innovative research and practical insights. Attendees also participated in the SADSA Biennial General Meeting, fostering collaboration and shaping the future direction of development studies in the region.
Overall, the event was hailed for its academic rigor, networking opportunities, and contributions to advancing knowledge and policy in development studies amidst contemporary global challenges.
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