Bridging the Science-Society Gap in Africa

Friday, February 12, 2016: 3:00 PM-4:30 PM
Marshall Ballroom West (Marriott Wardman Park)
Science communicators in the developing world have to make science accessible, relevant, and meaningful to diverse audiences. In addition to reaching policymakers and middle class urban communities, they also have to engage people who may be living in poor, informal settlements or remote rural areas. Engaging communities where literacy levels are low and access to technology is limited requires innovative approaches to science communication. This symposium reflects on the rationale and best practice for public science engagement in such unequal and diverse societies. Speakers will share stories and lessons about making science more socially inclusive across Africa, inviting attendees to share their experiences and suggestions for best practices in communicating science across the developing world.
Organizer:
Thandi Mgwebi, National Research Foundation of South Africa
Moderator:
Nick Ishmael Perkins, SciDev.Net
Discussant:
Juliette Mutheu, Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation
Speakers:
Thandi Mgwebi, National Research Foundation of South Africa
Making Science More Socially Inclusive: A Funding/Policy Perspective
Marina Joubert, Stellenbosch University
Building Capacity for Science Engagement in Africa
Nick Ishmael Perkins, SciDev.Net
Matching Science News with Development Needs
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