Speaking during the workshop, Prof. Gerald Misinzo, Chairholder of the O. R. Tambo Africa Research Chair in Viral Epidemics, said scientific communication is an essential tool for transforming research findings into knowledge that communities can understand and apply. He emphasised that researchers should communicate scientific information through appropriate language and channels that respond to the needs of their target audiences, thereby enhancing understanding, engagement and uptake of research findings.

Prof. Misinzo noted that research conducted by the Chair at SACIDS in collaboration with other partners focuses on various diseases affecting both animals and humans, including African swine fever, Newcastle disease and fish diseases. He stressed the importance of ensuring that findings from such research reach farmers, professionals, policymakers and the general public in a timely manner to support appropriate action and help minimise the impacts of disease outbreaks.

He further emphasised the importance of leveraging technology and diverse communication platforms to disseminate research findings to wider audiences. He noted that when scientific communication is innovative and tailored to the needs of target audiences, it can enhance public understanding, strengthen collaboration and build trust in scientific information.

For his part, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic, Research and Consultancy) at SUA, Prof. Maulid Mwatawala, said research should not end with academic publications alone but must reach end users. He emphasised that scientific communication training is essential in equipping researchers with the skills to present research findings in clear and accessible language, engage stakeholders effectively and ensure that research contributes to practical solutions and positive development outcomes in society.