​Lerato Mailoane
Social innovation is key to reversing the socio-economic challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The pandemic should be the catalyst for innovation leading to the creation of radically different systems to address economic challenges.
These were the sentiments at the 13th Public Sector Economist Forum which was held under the theme: "The Post COVID-19 economic recovery."
Hosted by the Gauteng Department of Economic Development the forum provided a platform for knowledge sharing and engagement on how the province can achieve sustainable economic development.
Addressing delegates, Free State University's Pontsho Chomane said research recommends that government should strengthen partnerships with communities and municipalities.
"The challenges with municipalities should be solved challenges through collaboration. Social partners could assist in assisting government to develop solutions to institutional challenges.
"In innovative partnerships are important but government must first have an approach to say what kind of partnerships we want and how can we can address challenges affecting municipalities of local economic development," said Chomane.
As a way forward, the PSEF it will publish a research journal to widen knowledge on the emerging themes. 
"It is important for even economists to publish their work to demonstrate the value and impact of economists in provincial and local economic and public sector policy research, analysis and advice," Chomane added.