The National Institute for the Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to advancing, recognising and celebrating excellence in the Humanities and Social Sciences and confirms that preparations for the 11th Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) Awards are underway.
As one of the institute’s flagship initiatives, the HSS Awards remain a vital platform through which we recognise and celebrate excellence, innovation, and impact within the humanities and social sciences. The institute acknowledges that the eleventh instalment of the Humanities and Social Sciences Awards, ordinarily scheduled for March (every year) was not hosted in the previous financial year. This delay follows a significant and necessary period of institutional reflection and renewal, during which the NIHSS underwent a rigorous process to appoint new leadership, with a new NIHSS Board appointed in October 2025 to strategically reposition the organisation, to better serve the sector and the country at large.
This process, while extensive, has been critical in shaping a clear and future-focused vision for the Institute. With this foundational work now concluded, the NIHSS is energised and ready to move forward with purpose and intent. One of the key priorities in this new phase is to address the gap created by the absence of the awards and to restore this vital platform for recognition and engagement within the HSS community.
The Humanities and Social Sciences Awards are more than a ceremonial event; they are a national instrument for acknowledging the scholars, researchers, creatives, and thought leaders whose work deepens our understanding of society, informs policy, preserves heritage, and drives social cohesion and transformation. In a country such as South Africa, where the complexities of history, identity, and development require nuanced and evidence-based engagement, the HSS sector plays an indispensable role.
At a time when societies across the world are navigating complex social, political, and economic questions, the role of the humanities and social sciences in shaping critical thought, ethical reflection, and inclusive futures has never been more important. The NIHSS is therefore pleased to confirm that preparations for the 11th instalment of the Awards are underway. We are encouraged by the progress made behind the scenes and are confident that the forthcoming edition will not only uphold the legacy of excellence established over the years but will also signal a renewed chapter for the Institute and the sector it serves.
We call upon scholars, practitioners, partners, and the broader public to look out for further announcements and key updates regarding the awards, in the coming months. The NIHSS remains committed to creating platforms that elevate voices, celebrate achievement, and inspire future generations to contribute meaningfully to the Humanities and Social Sciences landscape.
We look forward to sharing more as we move closer to delivering what we are confident will be a meaningful and impactful 11th HSS Awards.