Jiving in Mauritius: Science communication training for the island’s first FameLab
You never quite know who you’re talking to… Last year’s FameLab SA final saw an audience member express her immense enthusiasm for the FameLab ‘talking science’ project, hosted by Jive Media Africa in partnership with the British Council and the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement. It turns out that Mrs Ameenah Gurib-Fakin is not only a celebrated woman in science – with numerous academic accolades and leadership positions to her name. In addition, she is the president of the Republic of Mauritius.
Her Excellency subsequently approached the British Council to implement FameLab in her own country. One year later, Jive Media Africa is at the British Council offices in Rosehill, delivering a science communication training program in preparation for Mauritius’ first FameLab.
Jive Media Africa’s engaging training program explores why science communication is so crucial and the differences between communicating research to scientists and to the public. Trainees are equipped with skills for radio and television and to deliver short science presentations maintaining audience interest with expert storytelling and physical performance techniques. The 38 participants included prospective FameLab participants, drawn from research organisations and universities across Mauritius. They are joined by local science educators who wish to improve their communication methods.
Our team is also providing strategic support to the British Council in Mauritius for the inaugural FameLab event. If you are interested in getting involved in FameLab, or would like to engage world-class science communication training within your own organization, please get in touch with us via our contact form.