Leadership, Knowledge and Skills for Impactful Science Communication
On 15 May 2025, postgraduate students and staff from the University of Zululand (UNIZULU) Department of Mathematical Sciences participated in an online Africa Scientifique (AS) Introductory Workshop, marking the commencement of a transformative journey in science communication. The workshop formed part of the 2025 three-phase Africa Scientifique programme, conducted by AIMS House of Science in partnership with African Gong.
The workshop began with welcoming remarks from Mr Philane Majozi, a Lecturer at UNIZULU. He commended the partnership between UNIZULU, AIMS, and African Gong in providing the next generation of researchers with the vital tools they require to thrive not only in academia but also in society.
The workshop brought together 24 UNIZULU postgraduate students and staff for an engaging session filled with insights and inspiration from expert facilitators and AS programme Alumni. The Workshop was facilitated by Dr Rejoyce Gavhi-Molefe, AIMS’s House of Science Manager, and Dr Elizabeth Rasekoala, the President of Africa Gong.
Dr Gavhi-Molefe introduced the AS Programme at AIMS, highlighting its roots in AIMS’s long-standing mission: to train Africa’s brightest minds in mathematical sciences and empower them to be agents of change. Since 2003, AIMS has championed this goal, and the AS Programme adds a vital dimension by developing public science communication and leadership skills that enable scientists to bridge the gap between research and society.
The AS programme is structured into three phases: an Introductory Workshop, a three-day intensive Workshop, and a six-month Post-Workshop mentoring and support phase. This comprehensive approach ensures students not only gain theoretical knowledge but also engage in practical, community-driven science communication projects.
One of the most pressing challenges discussed was the widespread difficulty among students in articulating complex mathematical concepts in relatable ways. African Gong’s involvement addresses this skills gap by fostering leadership in science communication, particularly through an Afrocentric approach rooted in the continent’s unique cultural and historical context.
Dr Rasekoala encouraged students to view science communication as more than a soft skill; it is a transformative tool that enables scientists to support development, shape public policy, enhance presentation and interpersonal skills, boost visibility and inspire future generations.
The workshop sprang to life through inspiring testimonials from AS Alumni. Mr Siyabonga Mthimkulu, a PhD student at AIMS South Africa and AS 2023 Alumni, emphasised how the experience pushed him out of his comfort zone and taught him to communicate research in ways that resonate with everyday people.
“Many of us struggle to explain what we do—and yet that’s how we gain support and funding,” he shared
Ms Masego Mothapo, an Honours student at the University of Venda and AS 2024 Alumni, shared her journey from a timid student to a confident communicator. She celebrated the workshop’s collaborative spirit, crediting it with helping her find her voice. Her growth earned her the Africa Scientifique Excellence Award, and she is now motivated to seek further opportunities in science communication.
“Little did I know that it was going to be a week that would change my life forever… I started shy, but by the end, I was confident, open to learning, and even received an Africa Scientifique Excellence Award.”
Her newfound skills later enabled her to present with confidence during a three-week academic exchange in Russia, engaging with global audiences.
“With the experience I got from AIMS, I was able to communicate with people from different countries—it sounded hard, but I did it. It was very much possible.”
Mr. Phumlani Zondi, a Mathematics Lecturer at UNIZULU and a 2014 AIMS Alumni, delivered inspiring closing remarks, reminding attendees of the opportunities that await them and the importance of remaining engaged. He also highlighted the alignment between the Africa Scientifique Programme and UNIZULU’s renewed commitment to Afrocentric values. Mr. Zondi emphasised that this partnership comes at an ideal time:
“Our university has recently shifted towards an Afrocentric vision. We think of ourselves as an African thought institution. In our teaching, we’re decolonizing content, integrating African traditions and culture into our curriculum. This program fits perfectly with our values.”
Ms Noluthando Sithole, House of Science Intern, directed the workshop as part of her leadership training.
What’s Next for UNIZULU Students?
The journey continues. Eleven Honours students in Mathematical Sciences will soon be selected to join AIMS Students in Phase 2: a three-day intensive workshop (face-to-face), scheduled for 2–4 June 2025, at the AIMS Campus in Cape Town. These students will be accompanied by a UNIZULU academic mentor, ensuring ongoing support and role modelling throughout their development.
The participants are already excited about the opportunity and ready to embark on the second leg of their science communication journey.
“As a BSc Honours in Mathematics student, I sometimes wish to share an idea which may sound complex to one, and I end up not sharing the idea because I would not know how to share the idea in a way that they would understand. So, attending this workshop would be a great help in learning skills on how to share complex ideas. I want to further with my studies and go to the industry.”
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