Building The Next Generation Of Astronomers in Developing Nations

Harry Tabi Ndip, Mbonteh Roland Ndunge, Tabi James Ndip, Lily Rospeen Asongfac, Roosevelt Tabi Ndip – University of Buea Astronomy club, AFAS (African Astronomical Society), Y4SSD (Youths for a Sustainable Space Development) Cameroon, SGAC (Space Generation Advisory Council), PASEA-ARP

With the eminent advancement in science and technology especially in the area of astronomy and space science, most developing countries are being left out or are non-participatory together with the benefits that will serve to the improvement of quality of life and advancement in research in better understanding our planet and universe. With specific education in astronomy and related fields missing from the educational curriculums in most African countries. Outreach programs, non-conventional and creative methods of communicating the importance of the science of astronomy to the mases stands out in sparking the interest of not just the young people but the institutions to adopt and welcome the science of astronomy in schools. Outreach based on educating the young people from ages 4-21 will be helpful in introducing astronomy to them and sparking their interest in astronomy, to give a fair chance to that child who dreams of having a career in this field but their dreams are cut short due to lack of education and access to educational resources in astronomy.

This is a solution that brings astronomy education to the classroom utilizing and improvising with available resources targeting children and young adults who do not have access to the resources and education in developing countries, addressing the issues of inclusion, diversity, and equitable access to education in astronomy. Thereby building a mass of enthusiast and future researchers who will advance the science of astronomy in developing nations.

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Building The Next Generation Of Astronomers in Developing Nations