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Science Should Listen to African Voices — People are taking a photo under an umbrella.

Science Should Listen to African VoicesCEFR B1

9 Feb 2022

Adapted from Halima Athumani, SciDev CC BY 2.0

Photo by Mugabi Owen, Unsplash

AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.

Connie Nshemereirwe is a director of the Africa Science Leadership Program and a former engineer. She emphasizes the need for African perspectives in scientific research, as many challenges are shared across the continent. She believes that research should come from grassroots voices in Africa, rather than external influences.

Science communication has evolved; scientists are now recognizing the necessity of explaining their work to the public. This change helps raise awareness about research findings and their implications.

Nshemereirwe also discusses the impact of COVID-19 on education. Many children hesitate to return to school, thinking jobs provide better immediate support. However, she warns that without a formal education, their future options may be limited.

The Africa Science Leadership Program helps scientists from different fields connect and share solutions. Through collaboration, they learn their challenges are often similar. The program has made Nshemereirwe focus more on Africa-centered approaches in her work.

This understanding helps in building stronger research connections within Africa, which can be more beneficial than relying solely on partnerships with institutions in the global North.

Difficult words

  • perspectiveA way of looking at something or a viewpoint.
    perspectives
  • grassrootsThe basic or local level of an organization or movement.
  • communicationThe act of sharing information or ideas.
  • implicationPossible effects or results of an action or decision.
    implications
  • collaborationWorking together with others towards a common goal.
  • beneficialSomething that is good or helpful.

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • How does local perspective influence scientific research?
  • What are some advantages of collaboration among scientists?
  • In what ways can education systems adapt after COVID-19?

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