Guwahati: The CSIR–National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (NIScPR) recently organised a virtual workshop titled ‘Interactive and New Approaches to Communicate Science in Assamese‘. The workshop aimed to bring aspiring and experienced science communicators in Assamese to establish a professional network and promote science communication in the state.
The workshop, attended by leading and budding science communicators, teachers, and researchers from various universities, institutions, and colleges from Assam, commenced with an introduction by Dr Paramananda Barman, Scientist, CSIR-NIScPR and coordinator of the workshop. Prof. Ranjana Aggarwal, the Director of CSIR-NIScPR, delivered the welcome address, highlighting CSIR-NIScPR’s endeavours in science communication and its advocacy for science communication in Indian languages.
The Chief Guest, Dr Dinesh Chandra Goswami, Scientist G (Retd.), CSIR-NEIST, and a leading science communicator in Assamese, emphasised using simple language to write a popular science article. He also discussed the importance of financial support for budding science communicators to engage them in science writing.
The technical session on ‘Popular Science Writing‘ saw presentations by leading Assamese science communicators Dr Ramesh Chandra Goswami, Dr PC Tamuly, and Dr Paban Kumar Sahariah. Dr Ramesh Chandra Goswami highlighted the significance of popular science writing and shared his experiences in improving popular writings. Dr PC Tamuly emphasised the importance of writing science fiction to engage and attract a large readership, stressing the need to read various books to enhance writing skills. Dr Sahariah discussed the need to encourage science writing in Indian languages and explored the use of AI for translations and its potential pitfalls. Arati Halbe, Managing Editor, Research Matters, provided insights on writing stories in English and Marathi, emphasising the importance of using local examples and cultural practices that resonate with readers.
The second technical session focused on ‘Science filmmaking, social media, and podcasts for SciComm‘. Vivek Kannadi of the Science Media Centre, IISER Pune, highlighted the importance of films in communicating science through an interactive talk covering aspects of filmmaking, such as writing a script and creating a storyboard. Dr Paramananda Barman and his team utilised examples from the SVASTIK program to demonstrate how to create infographics, short videos, and podcasts using free online tools.
The workshop concluded with a brainstorming discussion on strengthening science communication and outreach strategies in Assamese. The event provided a platform for participants to network, share ideas, and explore innovative approaches to communicating science in the Assamese language.
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