Prof Ivan Turok, who holds the National Research Foundation (NRF) Chair in City-Region Economies in the Department of Economics and Finance in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at the University of the Free State (UFS), has been named a recipient of the 2025 Distinguished Service Award by the Regional Studies Association (RSA). 

This international recognition celebrates Prof Turok’s significant contribution to the field of urban and regional research, both globally and on the African continent.

A longstanding member of the RSA, Prof Turok has served as Editor-in-Chief of Regional Studies and as Editor of Area Development and Policy, two of the Association’s six academic journals. He also served on the RSA Board between 2014 and 2018. The RSA is a UK-based learned society and the foremost global forum for city and regional research, development and policy. It manages six international journals, two book series, and hosts several international conferences annually. The award highlights not only his leadership in global academic spaces but also his efforts in representing scholarship from the global South.

“This recognition is a testament to the calibre of scholars within the EMS Faculty and thus significantly enhances the faculty’s research profile and global reputation,” said Prof Brownhilder Neneh, Vice-Dean for Research, Engagement and Internationalisation in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.

Championing urban development in Africa

Prof Turok’s research has focused on the economic structure and performance of cities in South Africa and across the continent. He has analysed the obstacles to faster economic growth and development and the key interventions required to support accelerated investment and job creation. These include public infrastructure investment and improved land-use management to create more functional, efficient cities.

With over 150 academic journal articles and 15 books and monographs to his name, Prof Turok is one of the most highly cited urban and regional development scholars in the world.

“Receiving the Distinguished Service Award is a great honour, particularly in representing academics from the global South,” he said. “Africa faces unprecedented challenges in managing rapid urbanisation, but also unique opportunities for cities to transform its development trajectory. More research is vital to inform the tough policy choices facing governments.”

He believes cities are “remarkable vehicles” for accelerated growth and inclusive development. “The concentration of human, private and public capital generates positive value and fosters learning, creativity, and innovation,” he added.

Improved evidence and understanding of urban economic systems and dynamics, he argues, are essential for harnessing the youthful energy of African cities. “Universities have a vital role to play in generating the knowledge, capabilities, and strategic intelligence required by governments, civil society, business, and communities to make African cities and regions more prosperous, inclusive, and resilient.” 

Prof Neneh said the award reconfirms Prof Turok’s global standing in regional and urban economics. “He fills a significant gap by applying spatial economics to urban and regional development in an integrated manner – this is especially of value in Africa, where it has been neglected.”