Our key projects

The Children's Institute aims to drive evidence-based, innovative change in advancing children's rights. Our work influences laws, policies, services and programmes to enable all children to thrive. Our key projects are long-term initiatives, providing vital resources for policymakers, researchers and child rights advocates.
 

What we do

The Children's Institute is an interdisciplinary and child-centred applied research unit. We combine academic research, advocacy and education to address the tensions between policy, practice and children’s lived realities to enable all children to thrive. 

Discover more about our work in:

Research  Advocacy  Education

Find out what drives us:

Vision and mission

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Thematic areas

The Children's Institute endeavours to advance social justice across six thematic areas. Explore our work and impact.
 

Aerial view of suburbs

Growing up in South Africa

A glimpse into the need for collective, evidence-based action.

71% of children live in households with insufficient income to meet their basic needs.

25%+ of children under five show signs of chronic malnutrition, compromising growth and development.

42% of children have experienced some form of violence – but community studies show far higher rates of exposure and trauma.

Status: June 2025
 

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