On the 17th of March 2026, Cochrane South Africa (CSA) hosted a Knowledge Translation (KT) workshop at the SAMRC Conference Centre, which aimed at strengthening a culture of research translation across the organisation. The event brought together participants from various units and divisions, creating a shared space for learning, reflection, and practical application.

Facilitated by Dr Ebrahim Samodien, assisted by Prof Mark Engel, the programme featured a mixture of presentations, case studies, and hands on sessions, introducing participants to the core principles of knowledge translation. The central aim was to capacitate staff with skills and confidence to actively translate their research into various KT products including news articles, policy briefs, plain language summaries and podcasts for identified key audiences and stakeholders. Opportunities for research to have real world impact beyond academic publication were highlighted. Practical exercises encouraged participants to think differently about how, when, and for whom research is communicated. The interactive “show and tell” session allowed participants to share their work, receive feedback, and learn from colleagues across diverse disciplines, highlighting the value of cross unit collaboration in advancing knowledge translation.

This workshop forms part of a broader commitment to embedding knowledge translation as a core practice within the SAMRC. By strengthening the culture of knowledge translation, SAMRC contributes to bridging the gap between research, policy, practice, and communities, ensuring that evidence generated can meaningfully contribute to improved health outcomes. Building on the positive engagement and feedback, the KT workshop will be hosted at the Pretoria and Durban Campuses soon, ensuring wider access to KT capacity building opportunities across the organisation.