The International Year of Science Engagement (IYSE) has announced its partnership with the Botswana Academy of Science (BAS).
The BAS was founded on November 10, 2015 and its objectives include providing information about science and building support for science from the general public in Botswana. As well as ensuring that research is conducted in Botswana in areas or on issues of particular importance and relevance to science or the nation.
They advise the government on all matters relating to science teaching and education in the country.
BAS is also a hosting institution for the Organization of Women in Science for the Developing World the Botswana Chapter, which is consistent with a standing imperative of BAS on gender inclusivity, gender equality and gender equity in Science.
“Science is for the community, and it must be done with community consciousness. This means appreciating criticality of science engagement to the growth of science and being intentional about it. It is key as scientists that our engagement with the public goes beyond telling the public the science story without hearing what the public wants to say or wants to contribute to the science story. We must embrace co-creation with the public for diverse insights so that in the end we all own the science. We are happy to be part of the IYSE and looking forward to participating in this noble course.”, says Dikabo Mogopodi, a member of the BAS board.