Who we are
The Centre for Sustainability Transitions (CST) is an internationally recogised research, training, and learning centre housed within the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at Stellenbosch University.
The Centre brings together research on the complex dynamics of sustainability transitions and transformations which is achieved through education and training, research, and engagements and which focuses on five key research themes – knowledge co-production, social-ecological resilience, transformative futures thinking, finance and resource flows, and political economy and development – that informs pressing national, continental, and global sustainability development challenges.
The Centre is a vibrant hub for leading scientists and students from diverse disciplinary backgrounds and fosters collaborations and partnerships with a variety of local and international universities. Our teaching and learning approach emphasises knowledge co-production, enabling the CST to bridge the gap between science, policy, and practice. By promoting collaboration, we foster an integrated and impactful approach to research and sustainable development.
The CST offers three postgraduate training programmes: Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Sustainable Development (NQF level 8), Master of Philosophy in Sustainable Development (NQF level 9) and PhD in Sustainable Development (NQF level 10).
CST Values
Honouring the fullness of ourselves and others
By practising empathy, understanding, self-awareness and kindness as we support each other and build belonging
Fairness and Justice
Acknowledging privilege and power, treating everyone fairly and standing up for what is right
Open-mindedness and appreciation of diversity
Respecting everyone’s views and experiences and valuing the participation and contribution of all
Transparency and honesty
Building understanding and creating clarity gives people choices and the power to make better decisions, supporting autonomy and trust
Conviviality
The joy, comradery and connectedness of working on interesting and challenging issues together
Making a meaningful difference
To issues that matter to us and the world with responsibility, humility and integrity
Being courageous and taking risks
By questioning, challenging and embracing chaos and disruption in order to understand things in new and exciting ways
Learning, growing and evolving ourselves, each other and our knowledge
Continually reflecting, debating and exploring possibilities, understanding that no one answer exists
