Mandela University’s Science IPL Inaugural Event Showcases Sustainable Well-being

The public lecture, titled “Systems Approaches to Fast-track Sustainable Wellbeing and streamed live on the University’s YouTube channel, attracted hundreds of viewers and participants from across the world, offering insightful perspectives on sustainability from renowned and emerging academics.

The keynote address was delivered by Professor Albert van Jaarsveld, an expert in biodiversity and systems thinking, with thought-provoking responses from Nelsiwe Mpapane, a community development leader and doctoral student at the University, and Dr Rhoda Malgas, a specialist in agroecology and community-based conservation and lecturer at the institution.

In his keynote address, Prof Van Jaarsveld highlighted how the world was still far from achieving the SDGs as envisaged by 2030, stressing the urgency of adopting systems-based approaches to fast-track sustainable development.

Drawing on his extensive experience in leading organisations like the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) and his academic research, Prof Van Jaarsveld highlighted how traditional, linear models of addressing sustainability challenges have been insufficient in the face of interconnected global issues.

“Linear thinking often leads to siloed solutions, but sustainability is a complex, multi-dimensional challenge that requires a shift in how we understand and respond to crises,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of integrating environmental, social and economic factors in sustainability frameworks, arguing that failing to do so risks perpetuating inequality and environmental degradation.

Prof Van Jaarsveld also spoke to the power of data and technological innovation to support systems approaches, touching on the advances made in climate modelling, artificial intelligence and data analytics and how these have made it possible to simulate complex scenarios that predict the impact of various interventions on ecosystems and communities.

“These tools allow us to see the ripple effects of decisions made at different levels, whether by governments, corporations or local communities,” he said. “This capacity to anticipate outcomes and respond proactively is essential if we want to achieve sustainable wellbeing.”

Prof Van Jaarsveld’s address included examples from real-world projects, including IIASA’s collaborations with the United Nations and other international bodies to develop strategies that link climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation and poverty alleviation.

“The good news is that we have the knowledge and the tools to implement these systems-based approaches. What we need now is the political will and collective action to make it happen,” he said, optimistically.

Ms Mpapane, a respected figure in community development and grassroots activism, provided a thought-provoking response that located the global perspectives within local realities. She began by affirming the need for systems thinking, particularly in South Africa’s rural and urban communities, where poverty, food insecurity and climate vulnerability interconnect.

“Prof Van Jaarsveld is absolutely right in highlighting the need for a holistic approach but for many people in my community, sustainability is not an abstract concept — it is about survival. It is about ensuring that there is enough food on the table and clean water to drink,” she said.

Mpapane, whose doctoral studies explore innovative approaches that promote inclusivity in conservation management, relational values and transformative change within conservation science, stressed that solutions must not only be scientifically sound but also socially just, inclusive and rooted in local knowledge systems.

She spoke passionately about the role of women in advancing sustainable wellbeing, particularly in rural areas where they are often the primary caregivers and food producers.

“Women are the backbone of our communities, and their voices must be at the centre of any conversation about sustainability,” she said. “They understand the environment in ways that textbooks cannot teach, and they have the wisdom to offer practical solutions that work at the grassroots level.”

In her closing remarks, Mpapane urged institutions like Mandela University to strengthen their engagement with local communities.

“Academics have a wealth of knowledge, but so do the people on the ground. If we can bridge the gap between science and the lived experience, we will be much better equipped to fast-track sustainable wellbeing for all.”

Dr Malgas, a leading voice in agroecology and conservation science, offered additional perspectives in her response. Building on Prof Van Jaarsveld’s systems thinking and Mpapane’s focus on community engagement, Malgas highlighted the role of biodiversity in achieving sustainable wellbeing.

“Biodiversity is the foundation of any sustainable system; from the food we eat to the air we breathe, our well-being is intricately linked to the health of ecosystems,” she said.

Dr Malgas argued that while technological advancements are important, they must be balanced with efforts to conserve biodiversity and promote regenerative practices in agriculture and land management.

She also spoke about the need for interdisciplinary research that cuts across natural sciences, social sciences and humanities.

“Sustainability is not just a scientific problem; it is also a cultural and ethical one. We need to ask ourselves not only what we can do to protect our planet, but also why it matters and how we can inspire others to care,” she said.

She encouraged young scientists to take an active role in the sustainability movement, urging them to think beyond academic research and engage with policymakers, farmers and civil society organisations.

“We have an opportunity to reshape the future, but it requires collaboration, creativity and a commitment to justice.”

The respondents’ contributions on the importance of socially just approaches to sustainable wellbeing and bridging the gap between the natural and social sciences and humanities, are in true alignment with the University’s scholarly objectives and overall strategy.

In the subsequent discussions and closing remarks, the message was clear: fast-tracking sustainable wellbeing requires not only scientific innovation but also empathy, inclusion and a deep respect for the natural world.