SAASTA has been instrumental in bringing an academic programme in science communication to South Africa, to be offered in Pretoria from August to September 2005. From about 100 applications, 32 students were selected to participate in this pilot project. The twelve teaching days, spread over four months, will be filled with local lectures, case studies, group discussions and digital video conferences. The international content will be delivered mainly by Professor Bruce Lewenstein, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA, as well as by Dr Andrew Pleasant from Rutgers University who will be in Pretoria for the first module. The international video conferences are made possible by sponsorship from the American Embassy in Pretoria and Cornell University.

Objectives of the academic programme in science communication

• To develop an academic programme in science communication in South Africa, in line with South Africa's particular needs and requirements
• To develop science communication as a professional field in South Africa
• To develop local lecturing skills in science communication
• To stimulate interest in science communication research
• To create strong partnerships with teachers and researchers in science communication abroad

Depending on the outcome of this pilot programme, it is hope to repeat the course in 2006 and eventually to expand it to a fully accredited postgraduate programme.

Programme for Module 1

	22 August 2005	23 August 2005	24 August 2005
09:00 - 10:30	Welcome, orientation, pre-survey and local introduction to science communication: Marina Joubert	Science and the broadcast media in South Africa: Steven Lang, SABC Assignments and future participants: Marina Joubert	Science Media relations: Hilda van Rooyen, CSIR Science and mass media group discussion
10:30 - 11:00	Caffeine Break
11:00 - 13:00	Introduction to science communication: Andrew Pleasant	Communication Campaign Planning/ Social Marketing: - Andrew Pleasant	Introduction to evaluation strategies: Andrew Pleasant
13:00 - 14:00	Lunch break: move to American Embassy DVC venue
14:00 - 16:30	Introduction to science communication: Bruce Lewenstein Overview and models of science communication, role players in the science communication system; Interaction with policy and culture. Assignment: Describe a science communication episode or institution in your country. Link its structure or content or interests to issues of local culture or politics. Reflect on the challenges/obstacles to putting science into local debate
16:30 - 17:00	Group discussions

Contact: Marina Joubert