This week a programme looks at efforts to decolonise science and to translate scientific terms into African languages. Reporter Halima Athumani speaks with language experts about the challenges and the opportunities of translation.
The episode says that using local languages and cultural references can make science more accessible and help communities join scientific conversations. Science communicator Sibusiso Biyela appears and the show is presented by Michael Kaloki. The episode is available on podcast platforms such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Difficult words
- decolonise — Remove colonial control or influence from systems
- translate — Change words from one language into another
- scientific — Connected with science and research
- cultural — Related to ideas and practices of a group
- accessible — Easy for people to reach or understand
- community — Groups of people living or working togethercommunities
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think translating scientific words into local languages is useful? Why?
- Have you heard science explained in a local language? How did it feel?
- What challenges might people face when they translate scientific terms?
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