Nigeria Hosts International Conference On Science Communication
BY SEGUN ADEBAYO, ABUJA – The second International Conference on Science Communication and Development in Africa is slated to hold in Abuja, Nigeria from 17-19th October 2019 at the National Universities Commission Auditorium, Maitama-Abuja.
According to a press statement signed by the Executive Director, Institute of Strategic and Development Communication (ISDEVCOM), Professor Emmanuel Dandaura, the conference, which is jointly organized by the Nasarawa State University, Keffi, and the University of Makerere, Kampala, Uganda, is expected to bring together over 250 key scholars, policymakers, scientists, communication specialists, and legislators across Africa.
The statement noted that the theme of the conference “Humanising Science- Optimizing innovation and Communication for Development in Africa” is critical at this point in time in Africa, as it will enhance necessary change in the continent.
According to the statement, “The Conference, which will hold from 17-19th October in Abuja, is strategic at this point in time, as critical information, which will ensure that the common man benefits from the scientific researches being conducted in Africa. The conference will also provide opportunities for inventors to exhibit their scientific products as well as drive discussions that could improve policy governing science, communication and research in Africa.
“The conference opens at 10am on October 17th with Barrister Mohammed Abdullahi, Minister of State Science and Technology as chairman. Emeka Nwajiuba, Minister of State Education shall declare the exhibition open while the special guest of honour H.E. Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule, Executive Governor of Nasarawa state shall declare the conference open. Other dignitaries expected are legislators, top government officials, media professionals and scholars from many Africa countries.”
The conference will also create an opportunity to connect with a global network of science journalists and communication specialists who are passionate about how the public can benefit from science and innovations.
The statement adds, “As we all know that science plays a major role in human development, because intrinsically, it attempts to provide solution to identified human challenges, and seek to impact society positively” However, in most developed countries, there is a wide margin between available scientific findings/ inventions, and the application of such to improve the day to day lives of the populace.
“Communication is central to the process of scientific research, and facilitates the uptake of the findings in such a way as to impact human lives positively.
“It is against the background and more that the Nasarawa State University, Keffi and the University of Makerere, Kampala, Uganda are partnering with many local and international organisations to host the conference which is expected to be hosted across African cities in rotation.”
