More About the AAAS Radio Journalism Project

Following an orientation in Pretoria, fellows are in-residence at the AAAS headquarters in Washington, DC, for four weeks where they learn how to research, write and produce science stories to the highest industry standards. Upon their return to South Africa, fellows write and broadcast stories reporting on scientific research and issues of local interest, with facilitation and modest support from South African Department of Arts, Culture, Science, and Technology (DACST) and other agencies.

Five fellowships are awarded each year. The 2001 Fellows included a broadcaster for the South Africa Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), recent graduates in science and journalism, a communications researcher, and a curriculum adviser for science and math teachers. The 2002 Fellows include a crime reporter, a print journalist from Eastern Cape Province, a producer/presenter for science stories from Northern Province, a program manager for the Agricultural Research Council, and a community radio presenter.

Competition for the fellowships has been intense; nearly 60 applications were reviewed in 2001, over 70 in 2002.

While at AAAS the fellows carry out their own assignments in science journalism, meet with experts in science reporting, and visit DC-area centers for journalism and science. The technical program is designed by Bob Hirshon, Corinna Wu, and Kandice Carter from the AAAS radio program Science Update. The project is administered by Alan Bornbusch of the AAAS Africa Program.

DACST is the South African Government's chief policy institution for arts, culture, science, and technology. Its mission is "realize the full potential of the arts, culture, science and technology in social and economic development, in nurturing creativity and innovation, and promoting the diverse heritage of [South Africa]."

Major funding for the DACST-AAAS Science Radio Journalism Fellows Project has been provided by DACST and the U.S.-South Africa Binational Commission. Additional support has been provided by the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria and by AAAS.

—Monica Amarelo

6 August 2002

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