Science for Africa Foundation Africa Science Journalism Awards 2025 for African Journalists
The Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation) is pleased to announce the opening of nominations for the prestigious Africa Science Journalism Awards (ASJA) 2025. This award recognises and celebrates excellence in science journalism in Africa, encouraging rigorous and engaging coverage of scientific issues that impact the continent. For journalists from Cape Verde and across Africa, this is a unique opportunity to have their work recognised and to contribute to greater public awareness of science and technology.
What are the Africa Science Journalism Awards?
The ASJA is an initiative of the SFA Foundation:
- To promote the quality and depth of science journalism in Africa.
- Encourage coverage of scientific issues relevant to the continent's development.
- Recognise and reward journalists who excel in science communication.
- Strengthen the capacity of African journalists to communicate science effectively and accessibly.
Why Participate? Benefits for Cape Verdean Journalists
Participating in the ASJA offers numerous benefits for Cape Verdean journalists:
- Professional Recognition: The award confers prestige and recognition on the journalist's work, raising their professional profile.
- Visibility: The winning entries are widely publicised, increasing the visibility of the journalist and their publication.
- Networking opportunities: The ASJA provides networking opportunities with other journalists, scientists and opinion leaders.
- Professional Development: Participation in the award can lead to training and professional development opportunities.
- Encouraging Excellence: The award encourages journalists to produce high-quality work and to deepen their knowledge of science and technology.
Award categories
The ASJA covers several categories, allowing journalists from different areas and specialities to take part. The categories may vary from year to year, but generally include:
- Cheers: Coverage of topics related to public health, infectious diseases, reproductive health, etc.
- Agriculture and Food Security: Coverage of topics related to sustainable agriculture, food security, agricultural biotechnology, etc.
- Environment and Climate Change: Coverage of issues related to environmental conservation, climate change, renewable energies, etc.
- Technology and Innovation: Coverage of topics related to new technologies, innovation, artificial intelligence, etc.
- Basic Science: Coverage of topics related to fundamental scientific discoveries, scientific research, etc.
Evaluation Criteria
The works submitted to the ASJA are assessed on the basis of strict criteria, which include:
- Scientific precision: The accuracy and correctness of the scientific information presented.
- Clarity and Accessibility: The clarity and accessibility of the language used, making science understandable to the general public.
- Originality and Creativity: Originality and creativity in approaching the topic.
- Impact: The potential impact of the work on public awareness of science and technology.
- Relevance: The relevance of the theme for Africa's development.
Examples of winning entries
To inspire Cape Verdean journalists, it is useful to analyse examples of winning entries from previous ASJA editions. These works generally stand out for their depth, rigour and impact. For example, a piece on the impact of climate change on agriculture in Africa, or a piece on the development of new technologies to combat tropical diseases.
How to apply
The application process for the ASJA is generally simple and straightforward. Journalists should submit their work via the SFA Foundation's online platform. It is important to read the instructions and application requirements carefully before submitting your work.
Generally, the requirements include:
- Completed application form.
- Copy of the work submitted (article, report, video, etc.).
- Motivation letter explaining the relevance of the work.
- Journalist's CV.
The Importance of Science Journalism in Cape Verde
In Cape Verde, science journalism plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable development and improving quality of life. Coverage of topics such as renewable energies, water management, sustainable agriculture and public health is key to informing the public and supporting informed decision-making.
Conclusion
The Africa Science Journalism Awards 2025 represent an unmissable opportunity for Cape Verdean journalists to showcase their talent and contribute to raising awareness of science and technology in Africa. By taking part in the ASJA, journalists can raise their professional profile, expand their network of contacts and contribute to the continent's development. We encourage all Cape Verdean journalists to submit their best work and take advantage of this unique opportunity.
For more information and to apply, visit: https://scienceforafrica.foundation/
The deadline for applications is: 04 July 2025.
