Speak up, young scientists ...

In future, it is hoped that many of our country’s scientists will look back on 18 October 2012 as a memorable day on which they first became aware of the importance of communicating their research to a broader audience.

Guests of honour at the Young Scientist Conference launch were, front from left: Dr Albert van Jaarsveld, CEO of the NRF, Professor Regina Maphanga of the University of Limpopo, Dr Phil Mjwara, Director General of DST, Dr Frank Hartkopf vom Hoff, Deputy Country Director at Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit. Back from left: Barry Bredenkamp, General Operations Manager at the National Energy Efficiency Agency, Professor Roseanne Diab, Executive Officer of ASSAf and Eugene Nqaba Ngcobo, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Science and Technology. Image by Academy of Science South Africa (ASSAf).		Talking to a broader audience. Young scientists are encouraged to view science communication as an important part of their role as scientists.

On this day, the third day of the Academy of Science for South Africa (ASSAf) Young Scientist’s Conference held in Pretoria, over 70 young scientists were treated to something a little different to the academic presentations of the previous two days – a vibrant, interactive session on science communication presented by SAASTA.

Communicating science to society

For many, this was the first time they had entertained the notion of communicating their research outside of their academic environment - to audiences such as their communities. The young scientists were encouraged to think about exactly why science communication would be important to society. They were also challenged to see their research in different contexts against the background of the utilitarian, socio-cultural and economic implications of science and science communication.

In her presentation Joanne Riley, Science Editor in the Science Communication Unit at SAASTA introduced them to a number of methods and modes for communicating science. Joanne highlighted some of the successful science communication initiatives that SAASTA has been involved in and the impact these have had on society.

The young scientists were further inspired by special invited speakers Robert Inglis, Director of Jive Media Africa, a former SAASTA/NSTF Award winner for excellence in science communication, Mandi Smallhorne, a freelance journalist representing the South African Science Journalists’ Association (SASJA) and Colleen Dawson, also from SASJA.

Science and the media

Robert Inglis gave his young audience a clear, informative and entertaining look at his views on science communication, clearly showing his experience and insight into what makes science communication efforts successful. Mandi gave an overview of how the media functions. She encouraged the young scientists to communicate with the media and to ensure that their science is represented accurately to the public in the media. Colleen spoke about SASJA as a network and forum for science communicators.

The session was very well received. SAASTA looks forward to more opportunities to encourage young scientists to consider science communication as part of their role as scientists … and to get involved in science communication efforts.

For more information, contact Joanne Riley, Science Editor, SAASTA.