Pia Geisemann at CLARE Capacity Strengthening Hub Seasonal School 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa

27. April 2026

Foto: Jamie Adams, SouthSouthNorth

From 20 to 24 April, Pia Geisemann participated in the CLARE CS Hub Seasonal School in Cape Town, South Africa, representing the REBUMAA project. Organized by the CLARE Capacity Strengthening and Research for Impact Hub in partnership with the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), SouthSouthNorth, and PlanAdapt, the Seasonal School brought together researchers and practitioners from across the globe to enhance research skills in climate adaptation.

The four-day program focused on a central question: how can adaptation research move beyond knowledge generation to drive real-world impact? Through a variety of interactive formats including group discussions, games, case studies, and presentations, participants explored what “impact” really means in the context of climate adaptation and how it can be achieved. Discussions centered on what effective adaptation looks like in practice and how solutions can be co-created.

During the program, Pia contributed insights from her work on community-driven anticipatory action approaches. A highlight of the program was an insightful field trip to the Water Hub in Franschhoek Valley, where participants engaged with practical examples of how research can be translated into action, particularly in the area of water resource management.

Reflecting on the experience, Pia highlighted the value of exchanging ideas with peers working in diverse climate adaptation projects worldwide. The insights gained during the Seasonal School will inform ongoing research within the REBUMAA project.

 Photos: Jamie Adams, SouthSouthNorth