College of Business and Economics | Annual Report 2023 70 Research Conference, addressing the availability of alternative modes of transportation for Gauteng urban farmers delivering goods to customers. Furthermore, in July 2023, ITLS (Africa) showcased its expertise at the 16th World Conference on Transport Research in Montreal, Canada. Rossouw, Pisa, Chakamera, Masoumi, and Mapamba presented research on the role of the transport sector in facilitating linkages between Northern Cape and the rest of South Africa, as well as associations of public transport ridership with subjective safety and security in Johannesburg. These conferences serve as platforms for the department to disseminate its research findings, engage with peers, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of transport and related disciplines. By participating in conferences both nationally and internationally, the institute continues to strengthen its presence and influence in academia and beyond. THE WAY FORWARD The Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies (Africa) has made significant strides in advancing research, knowledge dissemination, and academic collaboration in the fields of transport economics, logistics, and supply chain management. As we look ahead, several key initiatives are planned to further enhance our impact and reach: Capacity Building and Talent Development: We will continue to invest in talent management by filling the three full-time research positions in ITLS (Africa) in 2024. Additionally, we will explore opportunities to expand our postdoctoral research fellowship programme to attract top-tier researchers and nurture emerging talent in the field. Policy Engagement and Stakeholder Collaboration: Our commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration with industry stakeholders remains steadfast. We will build on our successful partnerships with organisations, such as the Transport Forum, to organise colloquiums and special interest group events. These platforms will continue to serve as crucial avenues for knowledge exchange and informed decision making within the transport and supply chain management domain. Research Activities and Impact: Building on our recent research endeavours, we will pursue projects that address societal challenges, promote sustainability, and harness innovation in line with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Collaborative efforts, such as the survey conducted in partnership with ITLS Sydney to determine travel patterns in Gauteng, will be expanded to generate actionable insights and drive positive change. Expansion of Research Groups: The establishment of specialised research groups, such as the Urban Mobility in Emerging Markets Research Group and the Smart Mobility Research Group, demonstrates our commitment to addressing complex transportation challenges from multidisciplinary perspectives. We will continue to grow these groups, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and amplify their impact through high-quality research outputs and publications. National and International Engagements: Our participation in national and international conferences will remain a cornerstone of our engagement strategy. We will continue to leverage these platforms to showcase our research, forge new partnerships, and contribute to global conversations on transport and logistics. In conclusion, the Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies (Africa) is well-positioned to build on its achievements and drive meaningful change in the transport and supply chain management landscape. Through strategic investments in talent, partnerships, and research initiatives, we are committed to advancing knowledge, shaping policy, and making a positive impact on society and the economy.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjU1NDYx