Center for Complex Systems in Transition (CST)

The Stellenbosch Centre for Complex Systems in Transition (CST) is a Stellenbosch University ‘flagship’ initiative established in 2015.

This initiative brings together complexity thinking, sustainability science and transdisciplinary research methodology.

Research at the CST is largely conducted in collaborative inter- and transdisciplinary teams that draw in expertise from different disciplines as well as from policy, practice and local stakeholders. Much of the research is funded by external project grants, and students are part of the larger project teams which provides additional opportunities for learning and research support.

CST has the following cross-cutting research themes:

  1. Governance
  2. Entrepreneurship & Innovation
  3. Social-Ecological Resilience
  4. Decoupling & Resource Flows
  5. Complexity & Systems Modelling
  6. Transdisciplinarity

These cross-cutting themes are applied to the following empirical research fields:

  • Food Systems
  • Water Systems
  • Energy Systems
  • Urban Systems

The centre is funded in part by Stellenbosch University, and in part by the National Research Foundation, plus project funding from a range of sources. The CST is located at the STIAS Wallenberg Centre in the Old Stables.

Latest news and articles

From insights to impact: Shaping science-based action on resilience

At a high-level workshop in Washington, DC, leaders in finance, policy, science and other sectors came together to refine the Resilience Science Must-Knows, a set of insights drawn from the latest resilience research, and shape a shared path toward science-based action.

Zanskar’s silent echo: Can community tourism revive a Himalayan legacy?

Learn how HKH-ICE winner Heco - Himalayan Ecotourism is working with local communities in Zanskar to reclaim tourism, blend tradition and sustainability, and protect their cultural legacy.

The power of Community-Based Organisations: Investing in local solutions for lasting change

RAIN 1 winner Itanya Africa Group champions locally-led climate solutions through community-driven mindset shifts, regenerative farming practices, and trusted local influencers.

Introducing 19 innovations driving resilient agriculture in East Africa

Learn more about the RAIN 3 shortlisted candidates; innovative agricultural solutions across East Africa advancing resilience, sustainability, and community impact.

The songs of the forest: A symphony of nature, science, and the human spirit

Learn how Knowledge into Use Awards winner Sekola Adat uses plant music to connect Dayak tradition, science, and conservation in Borneo.