About the Research and Innovation Department

University of Venda Research Niche Areas

The University of Venda in 2007 identified the main research focus area as “Poverty Alleviation and Sustainable Rural Development”. From its outset Univen has focused on serving the rural community and SADC region. It has broadened its activity by adopting a broad strategy and new niche areas listed below:

• “Developing and Managing Farming and Agro forestry System for Improved Livelihood and Food Security in Rural Communities”.
• “Integrated Environmental Management, Settlement and Energy for Sustainable Development”.
• “Combating Poverty and Illiteracy and Promotion of Gender Equality and Socio Economic Rights”.
• “Indigenous Knowledge System”.
• “Socio-Economic and Health Related Aspects of HIV and AIDS”.
• “Water Research for Improved Quality of Life.”
• “Investigating Maternal, Child, Youth and Women Health, Investing in Youth and Reversing the Trends.”
• “Entrepreneurship, Micro-finance, Innovation and Management of Human, financial and Heritage Resources to Bridge the gap between the First and Second Economy in South Africa”.

Keeping in mind the country’s social and developmental imperatives, multidisciplinary research will be aligned to our vision of elevating basic and applied research to excellence at the University of Venda and our mission of being the engine that drives critical innovative and relevant research for the pursuit of knowledge and for development of local, national and international communities. This will be made possible through our targeted niche areas as well as our policy on research linkages, collaboration and partnerships.