Researchers Urged to Improve Communication of Their Work
By Joyce Ojanji
Researchers have been urged to develop practical strategies for communicating complex research information in a clear and understandable way.
The Kenya Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei speaking at the National Research Festival said scientists and researchers must move beyond their intellectual comfort zones and proactively communicate their research findings to key consumers, such as farmers and the manufacturers.
Koskei said there is need for strong linkages between researchers and industry, which is the main consumer of research information. And this can only be possible by communicating the research information in a simplified language that the audience can understand.
According to Prof. Dickson Andala,Chief Executive Officer (CEO) National Research Fund(NRF), there is a lot of research output in the laboratories but the main challenge is communication.
He added that communicating the research output can lead to tangible products and services, ready for commercialization by the private sector, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), national and county governments as well as the educational institutions.
‘’The translation of research to commercialization through communication will positively impact the country by reducing the cost of living, eradicating hunger and creating jobs. It will also improve the foreign exchange balance and promote inclusive growth as envisioned in the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda,” Prof. Andala said.
He emphasized that for good science communication and advocacy, a multifaceted approach involving science fairs and research festivals is essential and therefore such events demystify science, making it accessible and exciting especially for young minds.
Prof. Andala observed that effective science communication and public engagement can promote confidence in research and development (R&D) among the larger public.
Additionally, Dr. Kenneth Monjero, a scientist at Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) explained that scientists cannot be journalists and journalists cannot be scientists and that is why they need each other in communicating the research work to the audience especially the farmers in the grassroots.
He emphasized that science communication should be incorporated in tertiary institutions since its key in research field. This would help in engaging the public to build trust, influence policy, improve scientific research, advocate for change, and create a positive dialogue.