Speaker
Description
"Bridging Worlds Through Words" explores the transformative role of multilingual, interactive learning materials in making astronomy accessible to diverse communities. Leveraging my background in computer engineering and my commitment to bridging educational divides, I have been part of a groundbreaking effort to create Ethiopia’s first translated flyers for astronomy outreach. Available in Amharic, English, Afan Oromo, and Tigrinya, these resources ensure inclusivity across linguistic and cultural lines.
A key highlight of this initiative is the SiGirls program led by Dr. Mirjana. Through this program, 1,500 translated flyers were distributed to trainees nationwide, alongside NASA-branded bags and educational goodies sourced from the International Astronomical Union General Assembly last August. These materials fostered curiosity and pride among participants, demonstrating the impact of localized content in inspiring a connection to space science.
At the Ethiopian Space Science Society (ESSS), we are building on these efforts with an ambitious project to centralize educational resources. This hub will serve as a platform where volunteers can contribute translations of content into local languages. Once reviewed and approved, these resources will be made publicly available at no cost, ensuring sustainable access to quality educational materials.
Localized resources have proven to transcend language barriers, transforming abstract astronomical concepts into relatable narratives. In rural and underprivileged regions, such as Ethiopia’s war-affected northern areas, these tools have empowered educators and students, sparking curiosity and fostering resilience.
This abstract underscores the importance of integrating language and culture into science education. By creating a collaborative platform for translation and distribution, we aim to make astronomy a universal language of hope and inspiration, accessible to all. I look forward to sharing these experiences and advocating for multilingual resources as a cornerstone of equitable science education.
| Stream | Education Development and Outreach |
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