Optentia Research Unit
From precarity to capability.
Interdisciplinary research for the optimal expression of individual, social and institutional potential, grounded in the realities of Africa.
Our purpose
Knowledge that expands what people and institutions can become
The mission of the Optentia Research Unit is to develop and organise knowledge for the optimal expression of individual, social and institutional potential, with a specific interest in the African context. The Unit draws on economics, educational sciences, employment relations, human resource management, information technology, philosophy, psychology, risk management, social anthropology, social work and sociology. Together, these disciplines allow us to study how people and institutions can move from precarity towards capability and optimal functioning. This work is organised into six connected research programmes.
Six connected programmes
Research organised around human capability
Each programme brings together researchers, extraordinary appointees and postgraduate students. Follow a programme to meet its people and explore its publications and projects.
Programme 01
Human Flourishing in Institutions
How individuals, relationships and institutions move between languishing and flourishing, and how capability-enhancing interventions can support optimal functioning.
Programme 02
Strengths-based Studies and Interventions
How strengths, skills, knowledge and connections can support positive outcomes for individuals, families, communities and institutions.
Programme 03
Technology and Capability
How artificial intelligence, robotics and immersive technologies can be developed and used in service of people and human capability.
Programme 04
Inclusion and Decolonising Praxis
How caring, enabling and inclusive contexts can uphold dignity and expand the valued choices of diverse people, groups and institutions.
Programme 05
Ageing and Generational Dynamics
Ageing across the life course, relationships within and between generations, and care, citizenship and inclusion in diverse African contexts.
Programme 06
Behavioural Risk Work
How actual risk-related behaviour shapes organisational resilience and decision-making under uncertainty in complex environments.
Find your route
Continue with Optentia
01
Postgraduate programmes
Explore master's and doctoral routes connected to Optentia's fields of research.
02
Short courses
Build focused knowledge and practical research capability through current offerings.
03
Research resources
Find research support, funding opportunities, ethics guidance, workshops and lectures.
Featured event
Capabilities Month 2026
A September programme of conversations and activities exploring capability, dignity and human development.
What is next
Research events and meetings
See upcoming lectures, workshops, programme meetings and public events in one uncluttered calendar.
News and ideas
Follow the work as it develops
Optentia newsletter
Research, people and progress from across the Unit
Read the latest collection of programme updates, achievements, publications and opportunities.
In the media
Optentia beyond the Unit
Find coverage of our researchers and students in the NWU newsroom and broader media.
Short updates from our community
Follow events, milestones and new work shared by Optentia's research community.
Connect with us
Start a conversation with Optentia
Contact the Unit about research collaboration, postgraduate study, events or general enquiries.