Clarifying the Niche of the Academy

This paper highlights the importance of evidence as the basis for informed decision- and policy-making, and the role of national science academies in using evidence-based advice to address topics and issues that affect the well-being of a nation. There are divergent views on the nature and use of evidence, and advice structures differ from country to country. Within this context, the Academy needs to determine its niche. Using examples from the Academy of Science of South Africa, some of the methodologies used and challenges faced are described.