Mazungumzo - African Scholarly Conversations
Mazungumzo - African Scholarly Conversations is a podcast that highlights perspectives from across Africa's academic and research communities through open dialogue on scholarly communication. It features African policymakers, science communication specialists, innovators, and tertiary institution leaders. Guests share candid stories about their journeys in research, policy, higher education, and innovation. The show is hosted by Joy Owango and produced by the Training Centre in Communication (TCC Africa).
Episodes
SN 5 EP 1: Connecting Africa’s Research Ecosystem: MAREN’s Role in Advancing Digital Infrastructure, Knowledge and Collaboration
What happens when digital infrastructure moves beyond simply connecting institutions and becomes a foundation for knowledge, collaboration and innovation across Africa?Across the continent, National Research and Education Networks (NRENs) are playing an increasingly important role in strengthening research and education ecosystems. Yet the challenge is no longer just connectivity it is how these n
SN 4 EP 12: From Fragmentation to Connection: Giving African Knowledge an Identity
What happens when African knowledge exists, but the systems that hold it cannot connect?Africa produces remarkable research, innovations, cultural knowledge and other forms of intellectual contribution. Yet much of this knowledge remains fragmented across disconnected systems, making it harder to discover, connect, attribute and measure its impact.In this episode of Mazungumzo: African Scholarly C
SN 4 EP 11: Bridging Science and Society Through Science Communication with Prof. Marina Joubert
How can science communication strengthen public trust and engagement with science in Africa?In this episode, we explore the evolving role of science communication in Africa and how researchers and communicators can build stronger connections between science and society.Our host Joy Owango sits down with Prof. Marina Joubert, a leading science communication scholar and associate professor at Stelle
SN 4 EP 10: Dismantling Structural Barriers for Early Career African Researchers with Review & Curate Network (RCN)
How are African researchers taking control of how their discoveries reach the community? In this episode, we explore the work of the Review & Curate Network (RCN), an African-led community supporting the evaluation, validation, and organization of preprints to ensure research is shared quickly, responsibly, and with credibility. Our host Joy Owango sits down with the leadership of Review &
SN 4 EP 9: Advancing Research-Informed Policymaking through Open Science and Governance in South Sudan
This episode features Hon. Dr. Woda Jeremaih Jago, Member of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) representing the Republic of South Sudan and Chair of the Subcommittee on Agriculture and Food Security. Dr. Woda discusses the role of research in shaping policy and development, drawing on her experience as a researcher, educator, and legislator. She shares insights into South Sudan's ev
SN 4 EP 8: Positioning Academic Libraries as Catalysts for Open Access in Africa with Dr. Fredrick Lugya (ULIA)
This episode features Dr. Frederick Kiwuwa Lugya, University Librarian at Busitema University and President of the Uganda Library and Information Association. Dr. Lugya discusses the transformative power of Open Science and the critical role academic libraries play in bridging the gap between researchers and public access. He shares insights from his 20-year journey in librarianship, the challenge
SN 4 EP 7: Strengthening Research Support Services Across East Africa with Prof. Edwinus Lyaya (EARIMA)
In this episode, we dive into the "hidden" profession that serves as the backbone of African science: Research and Innovation Management. We are joined by Professor Edwinus Lyaya, an Associate Professor of African Archaeology at the University of Dar es Salaam and the longest serving administrator of the Eastern Africa Research and Innovation Management Association (EARIMA). Prof. Lyaya
SN 4 EP 6: Scaling Open Infrastructure for African Research Visibility with Jerry Selanga (IOI)
In this episode, host Joy Owango speaks with Jerry Sellanga, Engagement and Communications Coordinator at Invest in Open Infrastructure (IOI). Jerry shares his perspective on communicating and sustaining open infrastructure and open science across Africa. The conversation explores IOI’s mission to drive strategic investment in digital tools that support the research lifecycle and the systemic barr
SN 4 EP 5: Reclaiming African Scholarship Through Open Science and Data Sovereignty with Dr. Julius Sindi (APHRC)
In this episode, we tackle the "painful paradox" of African scholarship: researchers acting as "architects" of data only to be locked out of their own results by global paywalls. Host Joy Owango joins Dr. Julius Sindi (APHRC) to discuss dismantling the "vicious cycle" of academic exclusion and the urgent need for a sovereign, African-governed African Research Commons.Connect with Dr. Julius Sindi
SN 4 EP 4: Knowledge Management and the Future of African Higher Education with Dr. Felicia Kuagbedzi (AAU)
In this episode, host Joy Owango speaks with Dr. Felicia Kuagbedzi, the Acting Coordinator for ICT Communications and Knowledge Management at the Association of African Universities (AAU). They discuss the AAU’s pivotal role in reforming higher education in Africa through digital transformation, knowledge management, and capacity building. Dr. Felicia highlights how the AAU is bridging the gap bet
SN 4 EP 3: Governance of African Research Ecosystems and Open Science with Dr. Henry Waruhiu, ESAMI
This episode explores the urgent need to harmonize research governance across Africa and break down the institutional silos that often keep scholarly knowledge trapped within faculties. We sit down with Dr. Henry Waruhiu, Director of Research and Management Consultancy at the Eastern and Southern African Management Institute (ESAMI), to discuss the "politics of publishing" and the unique
SN 4 EP 2: Reimagining North Africa’s Knowledge Hubs — Maha Abbas on Open Science, AI, and the Future of Libraries
In this episode host Joy Owango speaks with Maha Abbas, Head of Biblioteca Alexandrina Information for Africa (BAIFA) at Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Egypt, and North African representative at the African Library and Information Associations and Institutions (AfLIA). They explore how libraries in Africa, especially in North Africa, are evolving from historical centers of knowledge into dynamic, digi
SN 4 EP 1: Implementing Research Systems in African Hospitals with Hannah Wanjiku
This episode features insights from Hannah Wanjiku, the Research Management Officer at Gertrude's Children's Hospital, on the critical role of research management and science communication in strengthening African healthcare systems. Hannah shares her journey from clinical nursing to research leadership and explains why hospitals are "gold mines" of data that need structured syst
SN 3 EP 12: Building Equitable Research Ecosystems Through African-Led Management Systems with Allen Mukhwana of Science for Africa Foundation
In this episode, Allen Mukhwana, Head of Programmes, Strengthening Science Ecosystems at Science for Africa Foundation, shares her journey from accidentally stumbling into research management to becoming a champion for equitable research partnerships across Africa. Allen reveals how strategic research management can dismantle colonial legacies in academia and build truly equitable partnerships wit
SN 3 EP 11: Harnessing Behavioral Science for Better Research Communication with Monica Akinyi Kay of Busara
In this episode, we sit down with Monica Akinyi Kay, Project Associate at the Busara Center for Behavioral Economics, to explore how behavioral science can transform research communication in African contexts.Monica shares insights from her work with civil society organizations across East and Southern Africa, highlighting the Low-Cost Message Testing Guide (LCMT), a practical approach that helps
SN 3 EP 10: Reflections on the Open Science Strategy in Morocco with Hanae Lrhoul
In this episode we sit down with Professor Hanae Lrhoul, a leading voice in open science and research policy in Morocco. From her early work building digital repositories to helping shape the country’s National Open Science Strategy, Professor Lrhou shares reflections on the progress, challenges, and collective vision for a more inclusive, collaborative, and impactful scientific future in Morocco
SN 3 EP 9: Building Equitable Research Infrastructure for Africa with Datacite's Matt Buys
In this episode Joy Owango sits down with Matthew Buys , Executive Director of DataCite and a pioneering force in open research infrastructure. From his early days working across Africa to his current global leadership in persistent identifiers, Matt shares a powerful vision for making research outputs, especially from Africa and the Global South, more visible, accessible, and reusable. This conve
SN 3 EP 8: Celebrating African Science Communication in Our Own Words
In this episode, host Joy Owango is joined by co-host Anne Chisa for a special Africa Day episode featuring a powerhouse panel of science podcasters reshaping research communication across the continent. This inspiring conversation brings together Wealth Okete (the Immunology in Africa Podcast), Anita Makori (My Science Journey), and Wambui Mbichi (Farm to Table KE Podcast) as they share their jou
SN 3 EP 7: Preserving African Knowledge Through Digital Libraries with Dr. Nkem Osuigwe
In this episode, Dr. Nkem Osuigwe talks about her journey from a child in post-war Nigeria to an award-winning librarian. Dr. Osuigwe shares her work with the African Library and Information Associations and Institutions (AfLIA) and as 2022's Wikimedian of the Year. The conversation explores pressing issues in African librarianship: preserving traditional knowledge, translating materials into
SN 3 EP 6: Advancing Reproducible Research Through Community-Led Initiatives with Emmanuel Boakye (AREN)
In this episode, Emmanuel Boakye, co-founder of the African Reproducibility Network (AREN), discusses the role of open science in Africa and the importance of research reproducibility. He shares how AREN is bridging gaps in research culture through grassroots advocacy, training programs, and policy engagement, while addressing challenges like institutional buy-in and funding. Learn how African res
SN 3 EP 5: Leading Higher Education Reforms in Africa with Professor Nelson Ijumba
In this episode ofMazungumzo - African Scholarly Conversations, Professor Nelson Ijumba shares his experience leading the restructuring of the University of Rwanda, merging seven institutions into one research-led university. He discusses the challenges of institutional change, faculty development, and internationalization, offering key insights for higher education leaders looking to enhance rese
SN 3 EP 4: Exploring the Power of Podcasts and Digital Platforms for African Research Impact with Root of Science’s Anne Chisa
In this special collaboration episode, Joy Owango of Mazungumzo – African Scholarly Conversations and Anne Chisa of The Root of Science Podcast come together for a dynamic and insightful discussion.
They explore how their platforms have grown into vital spaces for amplifying African research, highlighting the transformative power of science communication. Joy reflects on her 18 years of experience
SN 3 EP 3: Advancing African Scholarly Publishing through Diamond Open Access with AJOL's Susan Murray
In this episode, we sit down with Susan Murray, Executive Director of African Journals Online (AJOL), to explore the transformative power of no-fee publishing in reshaping the visibility and accessibility of African research.
Susan shares her insights on the challenges and triumphs of building sustainable Diamond Open Access models, the importance of amplifying African voices in global research, a
SN 3 EP 2: Transforming Research Collaboration in the Arab and North African Regions with ASREN's Yousef Torman
In this episode, we welcome Yousef Torman, Managing Director of the Arab States Research and Education Network (ASREN), to discuss how the organization is transforming research collaboration and advancing open science across the Arab and North African regions. From developing ICT infrastructure to fostering global partnerships, Yousef sheds light on ASREN’s efforts to overcome challenges such as f
SN 3 EP 1: The Future of Research Assessment and Incentives in Africa with Dr. Rhoda Wanyenze (MakSPH)
In this episode, Dr. Rhoda Wanyenze, Professor and Dean of the School of Public Health at Makerere University, discusses the evolving landscape of research assessment in Africa. The conversation highlights the need to rethink how research outputs are evaluated, focusing on societal impact rather than traditional academic metrics like publications and citations. Dr. Wanyenze emphasizes the importan
SN 2 EP 12: Unlocking Research Visibility in the Global South with ORCID’S Lombe Tembo
In this captivating finale of Season 2, the Mazungumzo-African Scholarly Conversations podcast welcomes Lombe Tembo, Grant Program Officer and Engagement Lead at ORCID. This episode delves into the critical intersection of scholarly communication, economic development, and research visibility in Africa. Lombe shares her journey from economics to championing equitable participation in academia, off
S2 E11: Building Somalia's Scholarly Infrastructure Post- Civil Conflict with Mr. Mohamud Mohamed Siad and Eng. Ahmed Siyad
In this episode, we explore efforts to rebuild Somalia's scholarly landscape post-civil conflict. Eng. Ahmed Dahir Siyad from SomaliREN and Mr. Mohamud Mohamed Siad from the Somali Library Association (SLA) discuss challenges and progress in improving digital infrastructure, research access, and libraries.SomaliREN has connected 50 university campuses to a national network, established a data
SN 2 EP 10: Engendering Africa's Research Ecosystem- Dr. Dorothy Ngila's Vision for Inclusive Science
This episode features a powerful narrative of resilience, innovation, and the ongoing quest for inclusive science in Africa. Dr. Dorothy Ngila, drawing from her unique "Afropolitan" experience, presents a roadmap for institutional reform in science and research. She unpacks the critical role of funding agencies in driving inclusivity, the power of pan-African collaborations like the Scie
SN 2 EP 9: Data Stewardship, AI, and the Future of Health Research in Kenya with KEMRI's James Ngumo Kariuki
In this podcast episode, James Ngumo Kariuki, a senior research scientist at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), shares his perspectives on the critical role of data stewardship, artificial intelligence (AI), and technology in shaping the future of health research in Kenya. Mr. Ngumo emphasizes the need for evidence-informed policies, county-specific solutions for universal health care,
SN 2 EP 8: Navigating South Africa's Open Science Landscape Through the Lens of Ina Smith and Susan Veldsman of ASSAf
This episode takes us through South Africa's journey towards embracing Open Science, a paradigm shift that aims to address societal challenges and promote research integrity. Ms. Ina Smith and Ms. Susan Veldsman, leading advocates at the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAF), share insights into the development of the draft National Open Science Policy, the challenges faced, and the oppor
SN 2 EP 7: A Visionary's View: Professor Peter Gatiti on Librarianship's Evolution
In this episode, Professor Gatiti shares profound insights into the essential role of librarians, showcasing their transformative power in managing and organizing
data effectively. As we gear up for the 26th SCESCAL 2024 Conference, hosted by the Kenya Library Association, Professor Gatiti's perspective couldn't be more timely. He advocates for the enhancement of information resources and
SN 2 EP 6 : From Manuscripts to Community Empowerment with Nicholas Outa of Dala Integrated Aquaculture Hub
In this episode, we embark on a journey with Nicholas Outa, a driving force behind research mentorship at TCC Africa. Beginning as an early career researcher, Nicholas's trajectory took an unexpected turn as he discovered a passion for mentorship and facilitation. We delve into how his hands-on training experiences shaped his evolution, propelling him from a learner to a trainer, guiding other
SN 2 EP 5 : The Journey of Gender Mainstreaming in Higher Education with Prof. Flora Fabian-Mbatia
In this episode, we are honored to be joined by Professor Flora Fabian-Mbatia, the founding Vice Chancellor of Mwanza University in Tanzania. Prof. Fabian is a passionate mentor dedicated to shaping the future of early-career women in science. From her formative years, where her father's support defied societal norms, to her pioneering work in anatomy and biomedical sciences, Prof. Fabian-Mbat
SN 2 EP 4 : Pioneering Africa's Information Landscape with insights from Dr. Gracian Chimwaza of Information Training & Outreach Centre for Africa (ITOCA)
In this episode, Dr. Gracian Chimwaza, the founding director of the Information Training & Outreach Centre for Africa (ITOCA), narrates his 24-year journey in leading capacity development and research projects across African countries. He emphasizes the importance of addressing societal challenges through information and knowledge exchange. This episode provides an opportunity to learn about t
SN 2 EP 3: A Symphony of Success- Professor Masanja's Unconventional Path from Arts to Academia
In today's episode, we highlight the impact of women in STEM, featuring Professor Grace Verdiana Masanja. She is the first Tanzanian woman with a Ph.D. in mathematics and also holds the distinction of being the first black woman from sub-Saharan Africa enrolled in the Fluid Mechanics course at the Technical University of Berlin. Join Professor Masanja's inspiring journey from arts to break
SN 2 EP 2 : Celebrating 20 Years of DOAJ! Advancing African Research and Open Access with insights from Prof. Kamel Belhamel, DOAJ Ambassador for North Africa
This episode explores DOAJ's efforts to collaborate with African countries, promoting accessibility, open access policies, and launching digital platforms as it celebrates its 20th year. We are joined by Prof. Kamel Belhamel, the DOAJ Ambassador for North Africa, who shares his insights on the representation of African journals in DOAJ, the complexities of
language diversity and the role of op
SN 2 EP 1 : Beyond the borders: Dr. Rana Dajani`s journey in Global Innovation and Literacy
Season 2 Premiere: We begin the second season of Mazungumzo- African Scholarly Conversations, by taking an explorative journey into Dr. Rana Dajani`s work and life. Driven by a deep commitment to literacy and women empowerment in STEM, she has taken on various key roles that are part of her dedication. Her resilience and strive to go on with her passion for science led to her undertaking her PhD s
Feature Episode: Using African Policy Data to Monitor Trends in Public Policy: Webinar Q and A Session
This episode features recordings from the webinar themed, 'Using African Policy Data to monitor trends in Public Policy', featuring public policy thinktanks Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) , Digital Sciences' Altmetric and Training Centre in Communication (TCC Africa). Par
Feature Episode: Using AI tools in monitoring performance and trends in Public Policy with Mike Taylor from Altmetric
This episode features recordings from the webinar themed, 'Using African Policy Data to monitor trends in Public Policy', featuring public policy thinktanks Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) , Digital Sciences' Altmetric and Training Centre in Communication (TCC Africa).
Episode H
Feature Episode: Charting the Kenyan Policy Pathways with Insights by Eliud Moyi from KIPPRA
This episode features recordings from the webinar themed, 'Using African Policy Data to monitor trends in Public Policy', featuring public policy thinktanks Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) , Digital Sciences' Altmetric and Training Centre in Communication (TCC Africa).
Episode Highlight
Feature Episode: The Role of Policy Data and Reports in Monitoring Public Policy Trends with ATPS's- Dr. Nicholas Ozor
This episode features recordings from the webinar themed, 'Using African Policy Data to monitor trends in Public Policy', featuring public policy thinktanks Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) , Digital Sciences' Altmetric and Training Centre in Communication (TCC Africa).
Episode Highlights
(00:10
Feature Episode: Regional Open Science Dialogue in Southern Africa Day 2 Part 4
This episode features highlights from the two-day Southern Africa Regional Open Science Dialogue held at the University of Pretoria in April 2023. This engagement brought together higher education stakeholders from Southern Africa who explored key themes over the two days, such as rethinking research assessment and incentivization in academia, with the aim to foster the adoption of Open Science an
Feature Episode: Regional Open Science Dialogue in Southern Africa Day 2 Part 3
This episode features highlights from the two-day Southern Africa Regional Open Science Dialogue held at the University of Pretoria in April 2023. This engagement brought together higher education stakeholders from Southern Africa who explored key themes over the two days, such as rethinking research assessment and incentivization in academia, with the aim to foster the adoption of Open Science an
Feature Episode: Regional Open Science Dialogue in Southern Africa Day 2 Part 2
This episode features highlights from the two-day Southern Africa Regional Open Science Dialogue held at the University of Pretoria in April 2023. This engagement brought together higher education stakeholders from Southern Africa who explored key themes over the two days, such as rethinking research assessment and incentivization in academia, with the aim to foster the adoption of Open Science an
Feature Episode: Regional Open Science Dialogue in Southern Africa Day 2 Part 1
This episode features highlights from the two-day Southern Africa Regional Open Science Dialogue held at the University of Pretoria in April 2023. This engagement brought together higher education stakeholders from Southern Africa who explored key themes over the two days, such as rethinking research assessment and incentivization in academia, with the aim to foster the adoption of Open Science an
Feature Episode: Regional Open Science Dialogue in Southern Africa Day 1 Part 5
This episode culminates in interactive discussions on incentivization and research assessment at the
Southern Africa Regional Open Science Dialogue held at the University of Pretoria in April 2023. The participants contributed their thoughts and ideas on practical actions that governments, researchers and academic institutions should take on rewards and incentives, answering the following questio
Feature Episode: Regional Open Science Dialogue in Southern Africa Day 1 Part 4
This episode features highlights from the two-day Southern Africa Regional Open Science Dialogue held at the University of Pretoria in April 2023.
This engagement brought together higher education stakeholders from Southern Africa who explored key themes over the two days, such as rethinking research assessment and incentivization in academia with the aim to foster the adoption of Open Science and
Feature Episode: Regional Open Science Dialogue in Southern Africa Day 1 Part 3
This episode features highlights from the two-day Southern Africa Regional Open Science Dialogue held at the University of Pretoria in April 2023.
This engagement brought together higher education stakeholders from Southern Africa who explored key themes over the two days, such as rethinking research assessment and incentivization in academia with the aim to foster the adoption of Open Science and
Feature Episode: Regional Open Science Dialogue in Southern Africa Day 1 Part 2
This episode features highlights from the two-day Southern Africa Regional Open Science Dialogue held at the University of Pretoria in April 2023.
This engagement brought together higher education stakeholders from Southern Africa who explored key themes over the two days, such as rethinking research assessment and incentivization in academia with the aim to foster the adoption of Open Science and
Feature Episode: Regional Open Science Dialogue in Southern Africa Day 1 Part 1
This episode features highlights from the two-day Southern Africa Regional Open Science Dialogue held at the University of Pretoria in April 2023.
This engagement brought together higher education stakeholders from Southern Africa who explored key themes over the two days, such as rethinking research assessment and incentivization in academia with the aim to foster the adoption of Open Science and
Feature Episode: High Level Multi- Sectoral National Open Science Dialogue for Academic and Research Institutes in Tanzania Part 4
Part 4 is the conclusive session of the National Open Science dialogue in Tanzania which culminated with a "Statement of Intent" by the representatives of policy actors from Tanzania.
The High Level Multi-Sectoral National Open Science Dialogue in Tanzania was the first of a series of national-level conversations on Open Science after the initial regional meeting with East Af
Feature Episode: High Level Multi- Sectoral National Open Science Dialogue for Academic and Research Institutes in Tanzania Part 3
This is a continuation of the National Open Science dialogue in Tanzania, which was the first of a series of national-level conversations on Open Science after the initial regional meeting with East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) where it was made clear that national conversations on Open Science are imperative as the messaging will be included in the regional STI policy.
Feature Episode: High Level Multi-Sectoral National Open Science Dialogue for Academic and Research Institutes in Tanzania Part 2
This is a continuation of the National Open Science dialogue in Tanzania, which was the first of a series of national-level conversations on Open Science after the initial regional meeting with East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) where it was made clear that national conversations on Open Science are imperative as the messaging will be included in the regional STI policy.
Ti
Feature Episode: High Level Multi- Sectoral National Open Science Dialogue for Academic and Research Institutes in Tanzania Part 1
Earlier in February 2023, Higher Education stakeholders in Tanzania gathered for the National Open Science dialogue. This was the first of a series of national-level conversations on Open Science after the initial regional meeting with East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) where it was made clear that national conversations on Open Science are imperative as the messaging will be
SN 1 EP 11 : The convergence of science and communication as a catalyst in empowering change in vulnerable communities with Jhpiego's- Verah Vashti Okeyo
In this episode, we delve into a world where science and journalism intersect, uncovering the profound impact that they have in shaping a more informed society. Spearheading this mission is Verah Okeyo, a renowned science journalist, teacher, and communicator who has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between scientific advancements and public understanding specifically in healthcare. She re
SN 1 EP 10 : Exploring the transformative power of scholarships in African Academia with RSIF’S-Bonface Nyagah
Postgraduate research is a journey of discovery and knowledge creation. It goes beyond simply learning how to think and delves into the realm of producing new knowledge. To embark on this journey, one must build upon existing knowledge, using it as a solid foundation. However, it is crucial to recognize that the pursuit of new knowledge requires support.
On this episode of Mazungumzo- African Scho
SN 1 EP 9 : Sustaining Scholarly Communications for Future Generations: Approaches for African Libraries with AFLIA’s Dr. Mac-Anthony Cobblah.
On this episode of the podcast, we had the privilege of catching up with Dr. Mac-Anthony Cobblah, an accomplished leader in academic librarianship, as he shares his insights on librarianship and leadership, especially when it comes to promoting open science within the realm of scholarly communication in African universities. He holds the position of chair for Academic and Special Libraries at the
SN 1 EP 8 : Demystifying Open Science in Africa: Understanding its Importance and Implementation with AAU's- Abednego Corletey
While there has been a shift in how Open Science is perceived in Africa, ‘Open’ is still being misconstrued to mean that it is a loose and unstructured approach to scientific research, without restrictions or regulations. This is not the case. What people have failed to understand is that Open Science not only promotes research credibility by promoting transparency and reproducibility but also pro
SN 1 EP 7 : Why Open Science Matters: Perspectives from an African Scholarly Communication Expert
For many years, African libraries have been struggling to keep up with the rest of the world in terms of access to scientific information and resources. This has led to a situation where valuable research findings are often shelved and not shared with the wider scientific community, and libraries are forced to operate with limited resources, hindering their ability to provide quality services to t
SN 1 EP 6 : The Journey of a Resilient African Mother in Science and Leadership
Today’s episode features the inspiring story of Professor Chioma Blaise Chikere, a visionary leader and scientist, who is breaking barriers and defying stereotypes in research. As a mother and African woman, she's on a mission to show the world the potential of women and the importance of giving them a voice. Hear her story of overcoming academic bias and progressing to a successful career in acad
SN 1 EP 5 : Promoting innovative and sustainable research opportunities for women scientists in Nigeria
Kickstarting our podcast series this year is self-proclaimed ‘woman in science’, widely published soil scientist and the National Chairperson, the Organisation for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) Nigeria Chapter, Professor Olayinka Nwachukwu. She talks about how her work with the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) is promoting gender equality in scie
SN 1 EP 4 : Why Research Mentorship Matters while Navigating Academia: Insights from Eider Africa’s founder, Aurelia Munene
If you are a researcher, you are probably familiar with the research lifecycle and all the challenges and opportunities that come with it. With this in mind, Eider Africa- a women-led social enterprise, has been working towards supporting researchers by providing a safe space for mentorship throughout the research life cycle and amplifying the voices of African researchers.
In this episode, Ms. Au
Feature Episode: Advocacy and Capacity Building in Open Access & Open Science to top management staff in African Higher Education Institutions
This episode features the genesis of a four-part regional blended workshop addressing the pushback and advocating for the Adoption and Implementation of Open Science and Open Access practices in member institutions of the AAU. It features various higher education stakeholders including Presidents, Vice-Chancellors, Rectors, Deputy Vice-Chancellors, Directors of Research, and Libraries of African U
Feature Episode: State of Open Access in Africa and its Implication on Researchers
Do African Researchers understand what open access entails? What Open-Access Academic Publishing infrastructure is available in Africa to support researchers?
We are joined by Elizabeth Marincola, from Africa Academy of Sciences Open Research, Matt Hodgkinson from Africa’s oldest Open Access publishing Hindawi and Osman Aldirdiri from AfricArxiv, Africa’s own preprint repository in this disc
Feature Episode: Open Science & Open Access Principles and Practices in East African Community Partner States
Today’s episode features an engaging session on ‘Open Science & Open Access Principles and Practices in East African Community Partner States’ by Dr. Sylvance Okoth the Executive Secretary of The East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO), Joy Owango of TCC Africa, Ana Persic of UNESCO, Nokuthula Mchunu of the African Open Science Platform(AOSP), Rhoda Wanyenze of Makerere Univer
SN 1 EP 3 : Research to Commercialization: How research institutions and universities can cultivate an environment that spurs innovation
‘You need to fall in love with and maximize the problem if you are looking to be able to come up with a brilliant solution”, asserts our guest, Ms. Agnes Tsuma as she narrates her journey coming into research innovation and commercialization. This episode features an engaging conversation that highlights the existing opportunities for early career innovators in Kenya, the current state of industry
Feature Episode: Using Digital Object identifiers to Increase Discoverability of African Journal Articles
In today’s feature episode, speakers from African Journals Online (AJOL) Susan Murray, Kate Snow, and Kylie Van Zyl demonstrated the pertinence of Digital Object Identifiers (DOI) in the fostering discoverability of African research outputs and journals as well as how to practically implement the DOI’s within the journals. The meeting was hosted by Training Centre in Communication (TCC Africa) exe
Feature Episode: A Round Table Discussion on African Perspectives on Peer Review
This episode contains dynamic discussions on the importance of peer review in scholarly communication and African perspectives that need to be included in peer review by a panel of experts in various fields.
The panel consists of Dr. Raoul Kamadjeu- Co-founder and Managing Editor at the Pan African Medical Journal (PAMJ), Dr. Stella Osoro Kerongo- Researcher and Clinical Psychologist at Kenya Powe
Feature Episode: Enhancing African Research Visibility Through Use of Repositories
Sub-Saharan Africa [is said to] account[s] for 13.5% of the global population but less than 1% of global research output. Part of the problem is that there is low visibility of its research output. Open access repositories have created a paradigm shift in enhancing African research output. Where are these repositories and how can we take advantage of them? How should African researchers make use o
Feature Episode: Research Capacity Support Systems for PhD Scholars in Africa
In this episode, we get insights from Titi Ajay- Doing a Ph.D. in Africa, and Andy Nobes- AuthorAID on research capacity support systems that exist for Ph.D. Scholars in Africa.
Ajayi, T., Nobes, A., & Owango, J. (2020). Research Capacity Support Systems for Ph.D. Scholars in Africa [Webinar]. AfricArXiv. https://doi.org/10.21428/3b2160cd.bf2fbd69
Feature Episode: Influence of University Rankings on African Research Visibility
One of the impacts of the globalization of higher education is the creation and rise of global rankings and its effect on the competitive nature of universities as we know them. Join Joy Owango, Lisa Bonney- Institutional researcher at the University of Johannesburg, Denyse Webbstock- Senior Director at the University of Johannesburg, and Prof. Ahmed Bawa - CEO, Universities South Africa as they d
Feature Episode: What Does it Take To Produce High-Impact African Journals?
There are 526 journals indexed in the African bibliographic database African Journals Online (AJOL). Of these 526 journals, 32 countries have submitted their publications in the database.
This episode features the webinar titled, 'What Does it Take To Produce High-Impact African Journals?', where guest speakers Raoul Kamadjeu of PAMJ, Susan Murray of African Journal Online (AJOL), and Joy Owango o
SN 1 EP 2 : Empowering children and youth to be agents of change through science communication
Former TCC Africa trainee, Mr. Kenneth Monjero fondly known as Dr. Fun, shares how his passion for science communication has inspired his academic journey and led him to promote the accessibility of science and scientific innovations to better the lives of children and youth in Africa through his organization, Fun & Education Global Network. Fun & Education Global Network seeks to improve
SN 1 EP 1 : The significance of inter-ministerial involvement in drafting Open Science policies in Africa
'Open Science will happen whether you're on it or not as the world moves through an era of digitization,' affirms our guest, Dr. Nokuthula Mchunu, the Deputy- Director of the African Open Science Platform (AOSP) and a Senior Researcher from the Agricultural Research Council of South Africa in the Biotechnology Platform.
In this episode, Dr. Mchunu shares her perspective on where Africa, and
Introduction to Mazungumzo 'African Scholarly Conversations'
In this launch episode, we introduce Mazungumzo, 'African Scholarly Conversations' and the purpose of the podcast. Join us and get to hear various stakeholders in the world of academia share their perspectives on scholarly and science communication, and share their candid stories on their research journey.
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