The South African Constitution defines the right of everyone to an environment that is not harmful to their health or wellbeing, and resources used sustainably for current and future generations. Various acts and policy frameworks provide for an equal focus on ecological health and wellbeing balanced with human health and wellbeing. Policy analysis explores environmental, economic and social opportunities and impacts to assist decision-making that will benefit the environment, the economy and people.
Policy analysts mainly work in an office environment as part of a team and often collaborate with businesses, scientists, engineers, legislators and other professionals to craft policy recommendations.
Policy analysts require an in-depth knowledge of policy design, development and processes and a thorough understanding of the socio-economic, political and environmental landscape, along with:
Research, evaluate and monitor policies and legislation to determine impacts, challenges and opportunities
Formulate and distribute synthesised policy reports
Develop policies to assist the implementation and modification of operations
Liaise with stakeholders to determine policy needs, opportunities and concerns
B.A. in Policy Studies at UNISA
B.A., B.A. (Hons), M.A. in Politics, Philosophy and Economics at NWU, SU, UCT, UJ, UKZN, UNISA, UP and Wits
B.A., B.A. (Hons), M.A. in Political Studies at all universities
National, provincial and local government.
NGOs, community-based and development organisations.
Private consultancies.
Research institutions.
