Conveners
Education, Development, and Outreach (EDO): Addressing Inequality in Astronomy
- Lealem Alula (Ethiopian Space Science Society)
Education, Development, and Outreach (EDO): The Cascade Outreach Model
- Sally Macfarlane (Inter-university Institute for Data Intensive Astronomy)
Education, Development, and Outreach (EDO): Citizen Science / Amateur Astronomy
- Simphiwe Madlanga
Education, Development, and Outreach (EDO): Lessons Learnt from Interdisciplenary Approaches and Astronomy History
- Alemiye Mamo
Education, Development, and Outreach (EDO): Science Communication and Evaluating Results
- Pranesthan Govender
Education, Development, and Outreach (EDO): Astronomy Education
- Linda Strubbe (Strubbe Educational Consulting)
Education, Development, and Outreach (EDO): Outreach initiatives Across Africa (Part 1)
- Joyful Elma Mdhluli (Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD))
Education, Development, and Outreach (EDO): Outreach Initiatives Across Africa (Part 2)
- There are no conveners in this block
Education, Development, and Outreach (EDO): Astrotourism & Community development
- Hiiko Katjaita (University of Namibia)
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Dr Zara Randriamanakoto (SAAO/University of Antananarivo)24/03/2025, 13:30Addressing Inequality in AstronomyTalk
SheMatters is a STEM-based community engagement initiative aimed at empowering girls from disadvantaged communities, particularly those residing at a foster home for disadvantaged youth in the outskirts of the capital city in Madagascar. This project seeks to inspire and provide hope to vulnerable girls through astronomy outreach, practical skills transfer, and career orientation. By...
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Michelle Lochner (University of the Western Cape/ South African Radio Astronomy Observatory)24/03/2025, 13:45Addressing Inequality in AstronomyTalk
Theย Supernovaย Foundationย (www.supernovafoundation.org) is a global mentoring and networking programme aimed at women and gender minority physics students, mostly from developing countries, to try to improve gender equality in physics. We target women in physics departments with few or no woman role models and use mentoring by senior female researchers to empower them and give them the support...
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Amirah Luna Izidine24/03/2025, 14:00Addressing Inequality in AstronomyTalk
As a little girl, I would gaze at the night sky with curiosity, passion, and wonder. I often pondered the mysteries of the Universe, imagining what lay beyond the stars I could see. When I learned that there was a science that unravels these cosmic secretsโAstronomyโI made it my lifelong goal to study it.
As I grew, so did my dream. I aspired to study in Chile, enchanted by its pristine...
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Jemima Kwakuyi (Xavier Space Solutions)24/03/2025, 14:15Addressing Inequality in AstronomyTalk
In Ghana, only 25% of STEM positions are held by women, a figure that dwindles as positions rise in leadership, revealing a stark gender disparity. At the same time, quality STEM education remains inaccessible to most Ghanaians, leaving young people without the skills needed to secure jobs right out of school. The public education system, though rich in potential, often lacks the resources to...
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24/03/2025, 14:30
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Duduzile Kubheka (SAAO), Sally Macfarlane (Inter-university Institute for Data Intensive Astronomy)24/03/2025, 15:30Talk
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Timothy Egbuim (Centre for Basic Space Science and Astronomy (National Space Research and Development Agency, Nigeria))24/03/2025, 15:45The Cascade Outreach ModelTalk
The adoption of the cascade approach by the AFAS education and outreach committee in the promulgation of the science of astronomy has been essential in the development of astronomy in Lejja, Nigeria. This project engaged 280 science senior secondary school students and 15 teachers at Community Secondary School and Federal Government Secondary School, both in rural Lejja, Enugu State, Nigeria....
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Tabitha Alango (Elimisha Msichana Elimisha Jamii)24/03/2025, 16:00The Cascade Outreach ModelTalk
Astronomy outreach at the primary school level plays a vital role in building STEM interest across Africa. This presentation shares experiences and outcomes from a targeted astronomy outreach program conducted across four primary schools in Kenyaโs Trans-Nzoia and Kiambu counties, reaching over 300 students in grades 4 and 5 by Elimisha Msichana Elimisha Jamii na Astronomia (EMEJA). The...
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Mr Albert Forson (Promoting Astronomy in Ghana through School Visits and Astro Clubs (PRAGSAC)/NAEC), Jemima Kwakuyi (Promoting Astronomy in Ghana through School Visits and Astro Clubs (PRAGSAC)/NAEC)24/03/2025, 16:15The Cascade Outreach ModelTalk
In an era where modernization and light pollution increasingly obscure our connection to the night sky, cultural astronomyโonce central to African communitiesโis fading into history. The Fireside Sky Watch Fest 2024, hosted by Promoting Astronomy in Ghana through School Visits and Astronomy Clubs (PRAGSAC) in collaboration with the Department of Earth Science, University of Ghana, and...
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Timothy Egbuim (Centre for Basic Space Science and Astronomy (National Space Research and Development Agency, Nigeria))25/03/2025, 11:00Citizen Science / Amateur AstronomyTalk
The menace of light pollution is currently a major problem for astronomers, and there is an urgent need for scientific and societal intervention. This project used the principles of automation technology through the Internet of Things (IoT) to provide solutions to light pollution. Also, this project adopted a citizen science approach for dark sky advocacy among its participants. This project,...
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Mr Djounai BABA AISSA (Center of Research in Astronomy, Astrophysics and Geophysics)25/03/2025, 11:15Citizen Science / Amateur AstronomyTalk
Although stellar occultations by small Solar System bodies are regularly observed by astrophysicists across the African continentโin countries such as Algeria, Namibia, and South Africa etc., Our continent remains underrepresented in global institutions working in this field, such as the International Occultation Timing Association (IOTA). This organization promotes the study of this topic by...
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Okolo Obinna Emmanuel (NASRDA Center for Basic Space Science)25/03/2025, 11:30Citizen Science / Amateur AstronomyTalk
As a Scientific Officer at the NASRDA Center for Basic Space Science, a branch of the Nigerian Space Agency, my position has enabled me to engage in collaborative astronomical research with international groups, including the International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC) and the Pan-African Citizen Science e-Lab (PACS e-Lab). I joined these groups in 2021 and have been actively...
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Mohamed Elattar (Paradox)25/03/2025, 11:40Citizen Science / Amateur AstronomyTalk
**Abstarct **
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Citizen Science offers the public an opportunity to contribute to scientific research. Pan-African Citizen Science e-Lab (PACS e-Lab) is a nonprofit educational platform for promoting astronomy and space science in Africa through hands-on projects, advancing space exploration, and enhancing space education and outreach. The Paradox Team is a group co-founded by students with an... -
SIMBIZI Renรฉ (University of Burundi)25/03/2025, 11:50Citizen Science / Amateur AstronomyTalk
Astronomy is a fascinating field of physics that studies celestial objects, such as stars, planets, comets, and galaxies, as well as phenomena that occur outside Earth's atmosphere. At the physics department of the University of Burundi, we have been running successive physics programs but with a relatively weak astronomy program. However, our astronomy program has taken a new turn due to our...
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Harold Safary (Kenya space agency)25/03/2025, 12:00Citizen Science / Amateur AstronomyTalk
The Kenya Space Agency (KSA) is embracing the Asteroid Search Campaign as part of its mission to foster hands-on activities in Astronomy and Space Science in Kenya. Our mandate is to promote, coordinate, and regulate all space-related activities in the country.
At KSA, students on attachment and internship are inducted into the campaign processes and issued certificates upon participation....
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Joy Olayiwola (National Space Research and Development Agency)25/03/2025, 12:10Citizen Science / Amateur AstronomyTalk
The Pan-African Citizen Science e-Lab (PACS e-Lab) was founded to engage the African public in citizen science and amateur astronomy research as a means of advancing space research and exploration, as well as enhancing space education and outreach. I have participated in the groupโs various research activities and discovered asteroid 2021 RZ190. Additionally, I have conducted research on the...
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Mr Mohamed Zbeda (Amateur Astronomy Libya), Ms Suhaila Tantoush (Amateur Astronomy Libya)25/03/2025, 12:20Citizen Science / Amateur AstronomyTalk
Amateur Astronomy Libya (AALY) is a pioneering organization that engages Libyan youth in astronomy inquiry. Our mission is to utilize astronomy to revitalize STEM learning after the setbacks in Libya's educational system caused by the war. We achieve this by producing digital educational content in Arabic, Libyaโs local language, and leveraging resources from international...
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Jamal Mimouni (University of Constantine, ALGERIA)25/03/2025, 13:30Lessons Learnt from Interdisciplenary Approaches and Astronomy HistoryTalk
The Drake Equation offers an engaging and interdisciplinary framework for exploring the possibilities of extraterrestrial life and advancing scientific literacy. By explicating each factor in this renowned equation, key concepts from astrobiology, chemistry, and basic physics are introduced to provide a structured approach to understanding extraterrestrial phenomena. This pedagogical...
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Ranim Segni (faculty of medicine ibn jazzar sousse Tunisia)25/03/2025, 13:45Lessons Learnt from Interdisciplenary Approaches and Astronomy HistoryTalk
Abstract:
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The relationship between astronomy and medicine may not seem immediately obvious, but both fields share deep connections in advancing human understanding and improving quality of life. This talk explores the fascinating intersection where these disciplines meet, particularly in the areas of technology, health, and space exploration. Innovations developed for space missions, such as... -
Mr khaled segni (tunisian ministry of education)25/03/2025, 14:00Lessons Learnt from Interdisciplenary Approaches and Astronomy HistoryTalk
In many century, Arabs and Muslims have contributed in many fields of knowledge and
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science with the testimony of near and far. They were a great deal of creativity, innovation and
scientific production. They paid attention to what other predecessors of the other nations had
studied. They translated their works into Arabic and added a lot of their research to them. They
wrote many unique... -
Prof. Somaya Saad (National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics, NRIAG, Helwan, Cairo, Egypt)25/03/2025, 14:15Lessons Learnt from Interdisciplenary Approaches and Astronomy HistoryTalk
In this presentation we will briefly give an overview of the Egyptian heritage and astronomical legacy, which can be well serve as a good tool for astronomical awareness and education. We will present different elements of our heritage represented in:
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Astronomical myths - manuscripts, Astronomical books with tables (astronomical tables). Meteorite craters spread in various areas on the... -
25/03/2025, 14:30
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Tumelo Nhlapo (Unisa Science Engagement Centre)25/03/2025, 15:30Science Communication and Evaluating ResultsTalk
The fields of robotics and astronomy are rapidly advancing, yet awareness of their educational potential remains limited among many communities. This study investigates the use of online questionnaires to assess and raise awareness of robotics and astronomy education during science events. Online surveys were distributed at various science outreach activities, including workshops and public...
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Cassandra Mzola (SARAO)25/03/2025, 15:45Science Communication and Evaluating ResultsTalk
Effectively communicating the wonders of astronomy to the public is critical for fostering scientific literacy, inspiring curiosity in future generations, and empowering communities to engage with the cosmos. However, the abstract nature of astronomical concepts often poses challenges in engaging diverse audiences.
This presentation explores innovative strategies to overcome these...
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Thembela Mantungwa (AfAS/NRF-SAAO)25/03/2025, 16:00Science Communication and Evaluating ResultsTalk
Based on a small sample research project, we found out that even though the Southern African Large Telescope(SALT) has been in Sutherland for 20 years, some community members in Sutherland have a keen interest to know more about what really happens behind the scenes when astronomers observe. During this talk, I shall present how we conducted the first contact, with whom,the feedback from the...
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Ms Buzani Khumalo (NRF-SAAO)25/03/2025, 16:15Science Communication and Evaluating ResultsTalk
With increasing Astronomical research and development in the African continent, fostering early engagement in astronomy to high school learners is crucial in nurturing the next generation of African astronomers. A pilot project established through the collaboration of South African and Zambian schools aimed to use the Astronomy and Space Science debate as a potential tool to engage African...
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Mr Exodus Chun-Long Sit (IAU NAEC and Co-NOC Hong Kong, China)26/03/2025, 11:00Astronomy EducationTalk
As astronomy education and space science gain traction, integrating astronomy into formal schooling has become a notable development, nurturing students' astronomical literacy and fostering their capacity for creative problem-solving. By leveraging engineering design processes and scientific inquiry, educators can facilitate the practical application of astronomical knowledge in real-world...
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ELINEEMA NASSARI (Mount Meru Astronomical Observatory)26/03/2025, 11:15Astronomy EducationTalk
Astronomy has a unique ability to inspire curiosity and foster a passion for science among students. However, in Tanzanian secondary schools, astronomy education is constrained by limited curriculum integration, insufficient teaching resources, and a lack of teacher training. This presentation will provide an in-depth look at the current state of astronomy education in Tanzania, highlighting...
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Cosmos Dumba (Mbarara University of Science & Technology)26/03/2025, 11:30Astronomy EducationTalk
The teaching of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics concepts posses some challenges in quite a number of developing nations. This is due in part to the lack of adequate laboratories and/or equipment that can be used for demonstration. It is also challenging to conduct experiments with classes whose numbers more than double the optimum class sizes.
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We mitigate such... -
Rashidi Mkwinda (Mount Meru Astronomical Observatory)26/03/2025, 11:45Astronomy EducationTalk
Introduction
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Astronomy outreach programs play a pivotal role in sparking interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines among students. In Arusha Region of Tanzania, where secondary schools often lack adequate resources for hands-on science education, astronomy outreach initiatives provide a unique opportunity to inspire students, cultivate curiosity, and... -
Getachew Mengistie (University of Zululand)26/03/2025, 12:00Astronomy EducationTalk
The department of physics at the University of Zululand, one of the rural based higher institutions in Vulindlela, KZN, South Africa is embarking on a new journey to introduce astronomy and astrophysics both at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The university started the idea of having astronomy research in the department of physics after it was involved in the Astrolab training organized...
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26/03/2025, 12:15
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Olayinka Fagbemiro (Nigerian Space Agency/AWB Nigeria)27/03/2025, 11:00Outreach initiatives Across AfricaTalk
Astronomy has a unique ability to inspire curiosity and innovation, making it an exceptional tool for advancing STEM education and addressing educational inequities. In Nigeria, a country with diverse cultures and significant socio-economic challenges, the potential of astronomy to foster interest in science and technology is vast but underutilized. This presentation highlights the...
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27/03/2025, 11:15Outreach initiatives Across AfricaTalk
The Faculty of Science at Cairo University actively participated in an enriching outreach initiative as part of the "Bidaya" Human Development Initiative, which focuses on building human capacity and contributing to sustainable development. During a recent field visit to the Intellectual Education School for People of Determination in Dokki, Giza, interactive workshops were conducted to...
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Bramuel Nakholi (Kenya Space Society)27/03/2025, 11:30Outreach initiatives Across AfricaTalk
As the Founder of the Kenya Space Society and a dedicated astrophysics graduate, my goal is to advance astronomy and space sciences in Kenya through community engagement, education and strategic partnerships. In this presentation, I will share the progress and impact of the Kenya Space Society in fostering an interest in astronomy among Kenyan students, scientists and educators, aligning with...
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Prof. Abdoulkarim Aliou (University of Bamako), Fatoumata Kebe27/03/2025, 11:45Outreach initiatives Across AfricaTalk
The National Astronomy Education Coordinator (NAEC) team for Mali, led by Professor Abdoulkarim Aliou, has been instrumental in developing and implementing astronomy education programs across the country. โโSโince 1994, Professor Aliou โhas led several activities towards astronomy education on a national level. His work includes creating curriculum materials, organizing โnational Olympiad on...
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Shingirai Makechemu (Lancaster University and the University of Zimbabwe), Thobekile Sandra Ngwane (University of Cape Town/South African Astronomical Observatory)27/03/2025, 12:00Outreach initiatives Across AfricaTalk
Despite the prevalence of science subjects in Zimbabwean secondary schools and tertiary institutions, access to astronomy education is limited. The Zimbabwean Astronomical Society (ZAS) aims to address this gap. ZAS aims to cultivate an appreciation for astronomy through public astronomy outreach, citizen science projects, workshops, and seminars primarily targeted towards secondary school and...
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27/03/2025, 12:15
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Ms Lisper Mwai (KENYATTA UNIVERSITY)27/03/2025, 13:30Outreach initiatives Across AfricaTalk
The Kenyatta University Physics Club (KUPHYC) is a vibrant youth-led initiative dedicated towards igniting interest in STEM, with an increasing focus on astronomy. Our activities include workshops in Astronights, featuring celestial observations and astrophysics conversations, as well as partnerships with international events like International Cosmic Day and masterclasses like the Atlas and...
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Ms Mary Gathoni (Kenyatta University)27/03/2025, 13:45Outreach initiatives Across AfricaTalk
The aspiration of creating awareness and visibility on astronomy among the physics enthusiast in the university is though hands-on experiences. The Kenyatta University Physics outreach club (KUPHYC) has been active in outreach activities that are not only informative, but also offering hands-on experiences. In the quest to creating awareness and interest in astronomy, especially on SKA and AVN...
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Mr Toivo Samuel Mabote (Associaรงรฃo Moรงambicana de Astronomia (AMAS) & Rhodes University)27/03/2025, 14:00Outreach initiatives Across AfricaTalk
Since 2017, when the DARA (Development in Africa with Radio Astronomy) basic training program began in Mozambique, we have made significant progress in advancing astronomy in the country. However, the community of astronomers in Mozambique remains very small, with only 13 astronomers currently. To address this, we recently established the Mozambican Astronomical Society (Associaรงรฃo Moรงambicana...
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NO FIRST NAME KAROL CHARLES KONARSKI (Nanosatellite Missions Design Ltd)27/03/2025, 14:15Outreach initiatives Across AfricaTalk
Space inclusion in the current African STEM education particularly in Cameroon (A โdeveloping countryโ) is usually neglected. Space technology, such as satellites and space missions are still a great black box to the common manhood, whereas they are increasingly utilized in the 21st century for the betterment of man's life.
At Nanosatellite Missions Design (NMD) Ltd, where I exercise as...
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27/03/2025, 14:30
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Samyukta Manikumar27/03/2025, 15:30Astrotourism & Community developmentTalk
Africa is home to some of the worldโs most extraordinary stargazing destinations, thanks to its minimal light pollution, vast open landscapes, and pristine night skies. Despite this advantage, there are currently few astrotourism initiatives across the continent. Astrotourism, a sustainable form of tourism combining daytime and nighttime sky observations with educational outreach and luxury...
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Aroonkumar Beesham (University of Zululand/Mangosuthu University of Technology)27/03/2025, 15:45Astrotourism & Community developmentTalk
The University of Zululand (UNIZULU) is situated in the province of KwaZulu Natal (KZN) on the east coast of South Africa in a largely rural area. Learners, students and educators in this area have very little or no exposure to astronomy and telescopes. UNIZULU has not offered many courses in Astronomy. However, with the developments in astronomy that have been taking place in South Africa...
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Ms Ruth Jebet Kipchumba27/03/2025, 16:00Astrotourism & Community developmentTalk
Astronomy's Role in Addressing Local Economies and Community Engagement
Ruth Jebet(1)
(1)SpaceGenerationAdvisoryCouncil, 30900, Eldoret, 30100, Kenya, +254792862329Keywords: astronomy, local economies, community engagement, socio-economic development, astrotourism
Astronomy has the potential to significantly impact local economies and foster community engagement...
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27/03/2025, 16:15