Efforts Towards Engaging Communities to Promote the Benefits of Biological Control Research and Implementation in South Africa

Abstract

In the last decade, biological control in South Africa has evolved from a classical applied science, allied to an extension service, to a more community engagement-based activity. Therefore, capacity building is important for the sustainability of biological control research and its implementation. In South Africa, a broad approach has been taken to build capacity in weed biological control, starting at grass-roots level with primary and secondary school learner programmes, through to developing research capacity at the tertiary level and enhancing technical capacity through adult education. Non-specialists are empowered through access to knowledge. The dissemination of accurate information through the most appropriate outlets has become increasingly important, including non-traditional science communication through the internet and, more importantly, social media, which has the potential to reach a far wider audience. Public understanding of biological control has the potential to contribute significantly to the green and knowledge economies of South Africa, but relies on government support for the sustainability of this discipline.