Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, is expected to officially open the first-ever World Conference of Science Journalists to be hosted in Pretoria.
More than 400 science journalists, editors, newsmakers and communicators from around the world will gather for the five-day event. Delegates will deliberate on issues ranging from networking and storytelling to shaping the future of science communication on the African continent.
The conference will take place under the theme “Science Journalism and Social Justice: Journalism that Builds Understanding and Resilience.” It comes at a time when misinformation and fake news continue to pose significant challenges globally. According to the department, today’s complex crises demand trusted communication and evidence-based solutions.
Participants will attend workshops on combating misinformation and embark on field trips, including visits to the Dinokeng Game Reserve to explore South Africa’s rich heritage.
In the lead-up to the conference, veteran African science journalist Munyaradzi Makoni urged the continent’s reporters to assert their voices and take the lead in telling Africa’s stories.
“We’ve got brilliant African journalists who live the context, breathe the culture and understand the stakes, yet they’re being sidelined for outsiders who parachute in for a story and leave,” Makoni said.
He emphasised the need for greater investment in and training of science journalists, arguing that it would help unlock untold stories and inspire the next generation of African storytellers.
