Why Should Scientists Share Their Stories Beyond Journal Publishing?
- Dimpho Lephaila
- Apr 14
- 2 min read
Making Research More Relatable and Impactful
Every day, incredible scientific work is happening in labs, field stations, libraries, and behind laptops across the world. Researchers are discovering, testing, analysing, and creating knowledge that can shape how we understand our world, and how we live in it.
Although South Africa has made in publishing its research in Open Access journals, some important research still remains confined within the walls of academia.
For many scientists, publishing in peer-reviewed journals is the gold standard of success. And rightly so – it’s how new knowledge is vetted and added to the scientific community. But what happens when that knowledge doesn’t travel beyond that world? What happens when it’s hidden behind paywalls, academic jargon, and technical language?
The truth is, not every scientist gets published. Not because their work isn’t valuable, but because the process is long, competitive, and often shaped by rules that don’t account for all types of research or researchers. Even when publication happens, journal articles are rarely written for the public. They’re not designed to be understood by teachers, policymakers, high school students, or curious citizens.
And yet, those are the people who need this knowledge the most.
Public Engagement with Science in South Africa
In South Africa, approximately 60% of people get their science information from television, websites, radio, or social media – not journals. That means if research stays in the academic realm, it misses the majority of people who could benefit from it.
Science has the power to change lives. But only when people can access and understand it.
That’s why science communication matters. It’s about translating your work in a way that connects with people – not just intellectually, but emotionally. It’s about showing the why behind the what. The passion, the journey, the struggles, the questions that led you to your research. It’s about being seen, not just as a scientist, but as a person.
When scientists share their stories, they help demystify research. They help young people imagine new careers. They help build trust in science. They show that behind every discovery is a human being with curiosity, courage, and commitment.
If you’ve ever wondered whether your research matters to the world – here’s your sign that it does.
There are people waiting to hear what you’ve discovered. There are people who will be inspired by your journey.
You just have to tell the story.
Sources:
Comments