The programme examines efforts to decolonise science and to translate scientific terms into African languages. Reporter Halima Athumani speaks with language experts and with the science communicator Sibusiso Biyela, who says science fiction influenced his choice to work in science communication.
The episode follows a practical approach. It looks at how words and concepts might be adapted and how communities could get involved in shaping scientific language. Advocates quoted in the episode say that translating terms and changing the practice of science could help more people understand findings and take part in research and policy debates.
The programme Africa Science Focus is presented by Michael Kaloki and is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, iHeartRadio and Pandora. It was funded by the European Journalism Centre through the European Development Journalism Grants programme, with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Listeners can send questions by WhatsApp to +254799042513. The piece was originally published on SciDev.Net.
Difficult words
- decolonise — remove colonial control or influence from institutions
- translate — change words from one language to another
- science communicator — person who explains science to the public
- community — group of people living or working togethercommunities
- adapt — change something to fit new conditionsadapted
- advocate — person who publicly supports a causeAdvocates
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 terms into local languages would help more people understand science? Why or why not?
- How could communities get involved in shaping scientific language where you live?
- What problems might appear when people try to decolonise science in education or research?
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