Foresight’s potential – today & tomorrow
This report explores the use of foresight in addressing rural development challenges in South Africa.
(Generated with the help of GPT-4)
| Quick Facts | |
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| Report location: | source |
| Language: | English |
| Publisher: |
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| Authors: | Bob Day |
| Geographic focus: | South Africa |
Methods
The research method involved using foresight tools and processes, such as Futures Wheels, Technology Road Maps, and Scenarios, to investigate possible futures and stimulate innovation systems within the COFISA program in South Africa.
(Generated with the help of GPT-4)
Key Insights
Foresight is a proactive approach to envisioning possible futures and shaping them through today's decisions. It is not about predicting the future but managing uncertainty and complexity by considering alternative scenarios. The report discusses the application of foresight in South Africa, particularly within the COFISA program, which used regional foresight to stimulate innovation systems. It highlights the urban bias in development thinking, which often overlooks rural areas despite their significant poverty and lack of resources. The report suggests that a “rurbal” balance, integrating rural and urban development, is crucial for sustainable growth. It also emphasizes the need for a shared vision for rural development that is systemic, holistic, and contextualized. The report concludes with recommendations for expanding the use of foresight at national, regional, organizational, and individual levels to create a culture of foresight in South Africa.
(Generated with the help of GPT-4)
Additional Viewpoints
Categories: rurbal balance | English publication language | South Africa geographic scope | cofisa | cofisa program | foresight | futures | futures thinking | innovation | innovation systems | knowledge economy | poverty | regional foresight | rural development | sustainability | urban bias