One Year In: Mazungumzo- African Scholarly Conversations Podcast Season One Recap

13 September 2023 Categories: latest news, Mazungumzo Podcasts, News

This September marks a notable juncture for Mazungumzo- African Scholarly Conversations podcast. We’re celebrating not one but two momentous milestones: our one-year anniversary and the culmination of season one. Our journey to amplify African voices in academia and research has been nothing short of remarkable with its share of challenges and incredible successes.

As we approach these milestones, we find it crucial to take a moment to reflect; much like researchers pause to analyze their findings at the end of a study or in a literary analogy, the closing of a chapter, on our own journey and share with you the highlights and key takeaways from each of our thought-provoking season one episodes.

Season One Highlights

The convergence of science and communication as a catalyst in empowering change in vulnerable communities with Jhpiego’s- Verah Vashti Okeyo

In our conversation with Verah Okeyo, we explored the powerful intersection of science and journalism. Verah’s dedication to promoting scientific literacy and public understanding, especially in healthcare, reminds us of the crucial role science journalists play in inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators and in igniting a passion for discovery through storytelling, community engagement, and collaboration.

Listen to this episode on:

Afripods, Spotify, Apple Podcasts

Exploring the transformative power of scholarships in African Academia with RSIF’S-Bonface Nyagah

Bonface Nyagah’s journey from engineering to managing postgraduate scholarships was a testament to the transformative power of education. We learned that scholarships provide aspiring researchers with a solid foundation for knowledge creation and discovery. It’s crucial to recognize the support required for those embarking on the journey of producing new knowledge.

Listen to this episode on:

Afripods, Spotify, Apple Podcasts

Sustaining Scholarly Communications for Future Generations: Approaches for African Libraries with AFLIA’s Dr. Mac-Anthony Cobblah.

Dr. Mac-Anthony Cobblah’s insights on sustainability in research struck a chord with us. His call for research that leaves a lasting impact beyond our generation reminds us of the responsibility we bear as researchers and educators. We’re inspired to contribute to research that stands the test of time and benefits future generations.

Listen to this episode on:

Afripods , Spotify, Apple Podcasts

Demystifying Open Science in Africa: Understanding its Importance and Implementation with AAU’s- Abednego Corletey, Ghana

Abednego Corletey’s discussion on Open Science dispelled misconceptions and highlighted its importance in promoting research credibility, transparency, and data ownership. The AAU’s efforts to advocate for Open Science adoption and create an enabling environment resonated with our commitment to fostering open and inclusive research practices.

Listen to this episode on:

Afripods, Spotify, Apple Podcasts

Why Open Science Matters: Perspectives from an African Scholarly Communication Expert, Lazarus Matizirofa from University of Pretoria, South Africa

Lazarus Gallant Matizirofa’s pioneering work in promoting open-access publishing and research preservation in African libraries was eye-opening. We understand the challenges African libraries face in accessing scientific information, and Lazarus’s efforts inspire us to continue supporting open science initiatives.

Listen to this episode on:

Afripods, Spotify, Apple Podcasts

The Journey of a Resilient African Mother in Science and Leadership with Prof. Chioma Blaise, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Professor Chioma Blaise Chikere’s journey as an African woman in academia reminds us of the importance of creating opportunities for underrepresented voices. Her story stresses the need for inclusivity in research and academia, and we’re committed to promoting diversity and equality.

Listen to this episode on:

Afripods, Spotify, Apple Podcasts

Promoting innovative and sustainable research opportunities for women scientists in Nigeria with Prof. Olayinka Nwachukwu, OWSD Nigeria

Professor Olayinka Nwachukwu’s work with the OWSD in promoting gender equality in science and technology is truly inspiring. Her insights into the challenges and opportunities for women in science resonate with our mission to create a more inclusive research landscape.

Listen to this episode on:

Afripods, Spotify, Apple Podcasts

Why Research Mentorship Matters while Navigating Academia: Insights from Eider Africa’s founder, Aurelia Munene

Aurelia Munene’s dedication to research mentorship and community-building reflects our belief in the importance of supporting researchers throughout their journey. We’re committed to fostering inclusive mentorship and amplifying the voices of African researchers.

Listen to this episode on:

Afripods, Spotify, Apple Podcasts

Research to Commercialization: How research institutions and universities can cultivate an environment that spurs innovation with Agens Tsuma, Kenya National Innovation Agency (KENIA)

Agnes Tsuma highlights opportunities for early career innovators in Kenya and the role of industry-academia linkage. As she shares KENIA’s efforts to bridge the gap between research and innovation, we resonate with their vision of translating research into real-world solutions and look forward to supporting research innovation in Africa.

Listen to this episode on:

Afripods, Spotify, Apple Podcasts

Empowering children and youth to be agents of change through science communication with Dr. Fun

Kenneth Monjero- fondly known as Dr. Fun is promoting science accessibility for youth through his organization, Fun & Education Global Network, which focuses on interactive learning experiences and mentorship. His passion for science communication drives his efforts to make science accessible and engaging for African youth.

Listen to this episode on:

Afripods, Spotify

The significance of inter-ministerial involvement in drafting Open Science policies in Africa, with Dr. Nokuthula Mchunu, African Open Science Platform (AOSP)

Dr. Nokuthula Mchunu provides her insights on Africa’s current standing in the shift toward Open Science, with a particular focus on South Africa. She highlights the imperative of engaging a diverse spectrum of stakeholders, spanning researchers, scientists, industries, legislators, and ordinary citizens, in the development and execution of science and innovation policies. Furthermore, she explores strategies for Africa to proactively engage with the global scientific community, all while ensuring the protection of its Indigenous Knowledge ecosystem.

Listen to this episode on:

Afripods, Spotify

Our numbers at a glance

As of today, our podcast has achieved 2,825 listens, with our top 10 listenership coming from Kenya, the United States, France, Germany, Nigeria, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, and Canada. It’s also worth noting that most of our listeners are female, and listeners age primarily in the age range of 35-59.

As we close this chapter and prepare for the next season’s sprint, we carry with us invaluable experiences, knowledge, and, most importantly, your unwavering encouragement. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible guests who have graced our podcast. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experiences with our audience.

Stay tuned for more exciting episodes in season two, as we continue our mission to elevate African voices in academia and research.

Yours sincerely,

The Mazungumzo – African Scholarly Conversations Team