Relationship-building between communities and astronomical observatories in South Africa

Abstract

The study is investigating perceptions of the Sutherland community about the Observatory with a view to understanding the extent to which the Observatory engages with its major external stakeholder - the community located 15 kilometres away from the hub of scientific research. Using the lens of the strategic role of public relations as the support for organisations to adjust to their societal and stakeholder environment. The objectives of the study are: • To investigate community perceptions about the astronomical observatory (SAAO) • To explore the nature of stakeholder engagement/communication that currently exists between the astronomical observatory and the Sutherland community • To understand if a collaborative relationship could be established between the astronomical observatory and the community around it.