TSHWANE, South Africa, (NewsDay Live) — The World Conference of Science Journalists (WCSJ) 2025 opened on Monday in Tshwane, bringing together science communicators from around the world for the first WCSJ held on African soil.
This year’s meeting is themed “Science journalism and social justice: journalism that builds understanding and resilience.” South Africa’s Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) said hosting the event underscores the country’s commitment to strengthening science diplomacy, improving visibility for African innovation and advancing equitable science communication.
“Science holds immense promise for humanity and for building a just and humane world,” said François Davel, DSTI’s director of international cooperation. “We must harness science in service of society — particularly for the most vulnerable and marginalised.”
Delegates began the conference with field trips to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for major hominid fossil discoveries. Organisers said the visit underscored the role of science storytelling in improving public understanding.
“In this cradle of human history, science and interpretation come alive through evidence-based storytelling,” said Lynne Smit, senior editor at Nature Africa and a member of the local organising committee.
Conference Director Engela Duvenage said the meeting aims to equip journalists with tools to communicate science “accessibly, ethically and impactfully” while promoting community resilience.
The WCSJ follows just two days after South Africa hosted the annual Science Forum.
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