To equip the communicators of the future: Thomas Hukahu on bringing back more sci comm to PNG
As he prepares to graduate with an Honours Certificate, Mike Gore Scholar Thomas Hukahu talks about the value of science communication in raising the new generation.
Thoma is based in Fiji. He is a trained journalist and teacher, educating high schoolers and university students -- who he calls "the future journalists and reporters" -- in media and communications.
He says in his region, science communication is not really promoted, and it is marketed as just a course, not a program. With researchers and scientists sometimes standing on one side of one issue, with people who have policymaking or community management and engagement responsibilties on the other, developing the discipline is badly needed.
Students who are in media, but might have to report on science matters. That would help the public and policy makers possibly address issues in science that are in the region.
"It is important we learn as much as we can about the different aspects of science communication, to better equip the communicators of the future."
"Some of the most challenging issues we are facing in the Pacific are better viewed and addressed through the lenses of science. We have climate change, dumping of waste in our ocean, the adverse effects of weather."
As far as Thomas is concerned, that change to the region and to the way future journalists and teachers are taught can start with himself.
"I believe in the need for educators to be upgrading themselves as much as they can because whatever they gain is gonna trickle down to the students that they are teaching."
Thomas was the first Mike Gore scholar. Established to honour the legacy of CPAS stalwart and founder of Questacon, Professor Mike Gore, the scholarship provides an opportunity for students from low- and middle-income countries to study an ANU Graduate Certificate of Science Communication.
The Mike Gore Scholarship let Thomas spend two weeks in-person in Canberra, in the midst of his Graduate Certificate Program. He says the time he spent in Canberra was very informative and very exciting. Beyond learning concepts, it has inspired him regarding starting new initiatives in PNG and the region beyond. He says he hopes that many more Mike Gore scholars follow in his footsteps, and that others support the program so that its impact continues to grow.
"Taking this program will help you and your organisation, and your country as a whole."
