NEWS
USJA twins with ABSW
The Uganda Science Journalists Association (USJA) successfully entered a twinning arrangement with the Association of British Science Writers (ABSW) in April this year. Through the arrangement, facilitated by the World Federation of Science Journalists (WFSJ), Ugandan science communicators and their British counterparts will share experience and knowledge. USJA and ABSW twinning was launched during the 5th World Conference of Science Journalists held April 16- 20 in Melbourne-Australia. USJA was represented by its chairperson William Odinga Balikuddembe while Dr Lionel Milgrom represented the ABSW. Balikuddembe told a USJA meeting in Kampala: “The British association has been around for decades. It will help us grow.”
New initiative for malaria, TB
By Eric BwireThe Ministry of Health and the Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND) on August 8, 2007, signed a memorandum of understanding through which they will provide diagnostics for the early detection and treatment of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis (TB), malaria and sleeping sickness. Health services director general Dr. Sam Zaramba said: “This initiative is going to revamp laboratory examinations which have long been dead in most government units.” FIND -- a not-for-profit organization based in Switzerland -- works with universities and research institutions among others to develop new diagnostics for the developing world. It is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and bilateral donors.
Scientists challenged at exhibition
By Eric BwireUgandan scientists have been challenged to package their findings in simple formats in order to benefit society. General Elly Tumwine, the former head of the Court Martial, said: “Scientists still think in a box. They cannot translate their research into options that can improve the lives of ordinary people.” He said this during the National Science Week exhibition in Mid September, 2007. It was organised by the National Council for Science and Technology under the theme: Science and Technology for wealth creation and improved livelihoods. The exhibition attracted universities plus government-owned and private research organisations.
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