Daily highlights
Each day of the symposium was packed with inspiring talks, engaging discussions, and memorable moments. This page offers a glimpse into the key events, capturing the essence of the symposium through summaries and snapshots. Relive the excitement and explore the highlights that made each day extraordinary.
MONDAY 18 NOVEMBER 2024, DAY 1 – morning session
Morning session highlights
The symposium commenced with a welcome by Sibusiso Moyo, who emphasised Stellenbosch University’s commitment to advancing discovery science. This was followed by Rick Borchelt, who introduced the programme rationale and unveiled the JCOM special issue on Communicating Discovery Science.
The opening keynotes set an inspiring tone. Nox Makunga explored how plant biodiversity connects deeply with cultural heritage and socioeconomic opportunities, using innovative communication techniques to bridge science and society. Mónica Feliú Mójer encouraged attendees to rethink how basic science relevance extends beyond utility, demonstrating how embedding science in cultural and societal contexts can foster curiosity and inclusivity.
After a networking coffee break, the plenary session chaired by Michelle Riedlinger delved into the journey of SciPEP. Brooke Smith outlined its achievements in advancing basic science engagement, while panellists Sara Yeo, Mike Schäfer, Melissa Boonzaaier-Davids, and Allison Eckhardt offered diverse perspectives on science communication’s future directions.
MONDAY 18 NOVEMBER 2024, DAY 1 – afternoon session
Afternoon highlights
Parallel Sessions 1 and 2 showcased innovative strategies for science communication. In Session 1, Rainer Bromme proposed creative methods like puzzles to explain complex research, while Chris Eksteen demonstrated inclusive educational tools in multiple South African languages. Fulufhelo Tambani explored challenges in funding natural science collections, and Siyamthanda Ndinisa and Mbali Ngulube discussed exhibitions for simplifying scientific concepts.
Session 2 featured Rejoyce Gavhi-Molefe on Afrocentric approaches to inclusion and Dávid Kulcsár on storytelling for marine science. Other speakers included Atondaho Ramudzuli, Samkele Mkumbuzi, Ravini Moodley, and Kezia Madell, all highlighting creative communication strategies for diverse audiences.
MONDAY 18 NOVEMBER 2024, DAY 1 – dinner
The conference dinner provided a beautiful sunset view of Stellenbosch Mountain and offered an opportunity for delegates to connect. To begin the event, Johann Mouton of the Centre for Research on Evaluation, Science and Technology (CREST) delivered a talk about the work they do, highlighting their contributions to the field.
TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2024, DAY 2 – morning session
Morning session highlights
The morning session kicked off with an insightful plenary by Bruce Lewenstein, exploring the impact of public engagement on scientific research through his study on “programmable plants.” This was followed by a panel discussion featuring John Besley, Marta Entradas, Mike Schäfer, and Sara Yeo, who provided strategies for building effective science communication infrastructure.
The focus then shifted to South African perspectives on science communication, with Vijay Reddy presenting the results of the South African Public Relationship with Science Survey [view report], and Beverley Damonse sharing innovative approaches to multidisciplinary science communication.
Plenary 4 began with a compelling presentation by Anusuya Chinsamy-Turan, who shared her strategies for engaging diverse audiences with palaeobiology. She emphasised the importance of using multiple approaches to connect with the public. The session continued with a thought-provoking panel discussion led by Magdalena Eriksröd-Burger, who explored the potential and challenges of science communication in schools. Finally, postgraduate students Melissa Vorster, Anika Du Plessis, and Karla Redelinghuys from Stellenbosch University offered valuable insights into the difficulties of communicating complex basic research and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration.
TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2024, DAY 2 – afternoon session
Afternoon highlights
In Parallel Session 5, a range of creative approaches to engaging audiences in science communication were discussed. John Lee shared the success of their “What am I looking at? | O que é isto?” project, highlighting teamwork and clear vision. Marilyn Couch and Nonkululeko Dlamini explored poetic inquiry as a tool for blending artistic expression with science. Melanie Brown discussed the role of comedy in science communication through The Infinite Monkey Cage. Marietjie Botes presented creative methods for making neuroscience more accessible.
WEDNESDAY 20 NOVEMBER 2024, DAY 3
In Plenary 6, Banya Kar discussed science communication practices in India, offering recommendations to improve funding, policies, and programmes. Sabine Heij presented insights into Dutch physicists’ communication practices, focusing on tenure and engagement. John Besley emphasised the importance of goal-setting in North American science communication. Parallel Session 7 focused on civic science, with Jeanne Garbarino exploring its evolution and role in empowering communities. A panel of Civic Science fellows shared insights on public engagement. Plenary 7 examined the integration of science into policy, with Heide Hackman and Janice Limson exploring barriers and opportunities for policy-driven scientific collaboration.
