ASLN launches training for scientists, journalists

African Science Literacy Network (ASLN) has launched its 2019 call for applications for its ‘Science Communication and Journalism Workshop’ which will take place in September in Abuja. The intensive workshop will introduce scientists and journalists to different methods of engaging wider audience with science and pair scientists and journalists for better science communication and improve […]

ASLN launches training for scientists, journalists

African Science Literacy Network (ASLN) has launched its 2019 call for applications for its ‘Science Communication and Journalism Workshop’ which will take place in September in Abuja.

The intensive workshop will introduce scientists and journalists to different methods of engaging wider audience with science and pair scientists and journalists for better science communication and improve judgment of information by the general population.

The application which deadline is 19th August is opened to Nigerian scientists engaged in health research and Nigerian journalists covering science – writing, editing or commissioning stories.

The application link can be found on the facebook page of African Science Literacy Network or on their Twitter handle @AfricanSciLit.

One of the organisers of the workshop Dr. Mahmoud Bukar Maina of University of Sussex, UK, told Daily Trust Youthville that the objective of the workshop is to train 36 journalists and 36 scientists from Nigeria “on the methodologies of science communication that can be used in communicating health research through outreach activities and the media.”

He added that the workshop funded by Wellcome Trust through TReND in Africa, is also meant to create a partnership between scientists and journalists for the long-term development of science in Nigeria.

He said “Scientists and journalists need one another.  I am optimistic that this partnership would facilitate and sustain science engagements that promote understanding, trust, and support for science in Nigeria.”

Other members of the organising team are Dr. Katy Petherick, University of Sussex, UK,    Dr. Amy Hong University of Oxford, UK and     Dr. Mustapha Shehu M., Gombe State University, Nigeria.