Connie Nshemereirwe is an educational measurement specialist and a former engineer who was co‑chair and an executive committee member of the Global Young Academy. As a trainer, writer and speaker she works to connect science and policy and she speaks on the Africa Science Focus podcast.
On research, she says many questions studied in Africa were decided externally rather than by local communities. She hopes the research agenda will emerge from the grassroots, become more informed by African voices, respond better to local challenges and produce fitting solutions. She also describes a shift in science communication: many scientists now value simplifying results so the public understands.
Nshemereirwe commented on education after Uganda reopened schools following long pandemic closures. Children suffered learning losses and some chose not to return; some took jobs to earn money. She warns that leaving school narrows future possibilities, even though a formal qualification is not a guarantee of employment. She trained in physics, chemistry and mathematics and later became an engineer. She directs the Africa Science Leadership Program and was a 2015 fellow.
Difficult words
- specialist — Person with advanced skill in a particular area
- grassroots — Ordinary local people or community level groups
- agenda — List of priorities or plans for action
- simplify — Make something easier to understand or usesimplifying
- respond — Act or give an answer to a situation
- reopen — Open again after a temporary closurereopened
- qualification — Official certificate showing complete training or ability
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think research priorities should come from local communities? Why or why not?
- How can scientists make their results easier for the public to understand?
- What problems can happen when children leave school early to work?
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