Quest – Science for South Africa is a full-colour, quarterly popular science magazine strategically designed to foster a scientifically literate society by engaging youth and the broader public in the excitement and relevance of science. Funded by the SA Dept of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), and published by the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) as an open access (free) resource, Quest plays a vital role in science communication and engagement, showcasing the country’s foremost scientific work in an accessible and compelling format.
With themed issues planned six months in advance, each edition of Quest supports strategic alignment with national science priorities and educational needs. Content is curated not only to inform and inspire, but also to complement school curricula and higher education teaching across various levels and institutions.
Quest’s strategic distribution model ensures its wide reach and impact. The magazine is disseminated to:
- Public high schools with science departments
- Universities and TVET colleges
- Public libraries, science centres, and resource centres
- Government departments, parliamentary committees, and embassies
- NGOs and civil society organisations
In addition, Quest maintains a strong presence at national science platforms such as science olympiads, focus weeks, DSTI events, and community outreach functions, ensuring that science communication is embedded in public life and policy discourse.
By translating complex scientific research into engaging stories, visuals, and educational features, Quest advances ASSAf’s mission of promoting evidence-informed decision-making and public understanding of science, thereby contributing to a robust national system of innovation and an empowered citizenry. Through Quest’s close alignment with the ASSAf Science Engagement Strategy (2024), it directly supports ASSAf’s commitment to inclusive, impactful science communication.
Quest is governed by an Editorial Team.
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Quest Enquiries
Magick Maphanga
Programme Officer: Quest, Scholarly Publishing Programme, ASSAf
Email: magick@assaf.org.za