Seminar of Plasma Physics - Sohan Jheeta (31.5.2018)
Thursday 31.5.2018 at 13:00 hod., Lecture room F2/51
Dr. Sohan Jheeta (Open University, Milton Keynes, England):
Providing access to Astronomy and Research against the odds
Abstract:
Currently there is little access to high quality equipment or facilities for research at both university and school level in Sub-Saharan Africa. The result being that the level of astronomy awareness in some of these countries is extremely low, not least because astronomy is not recognised as a priority by mainstream education systems because the subject is not seen as paving the way for bringing home the “bacon” so to speak. This should be of the utmost concern for all. To try and overcome these challenges, I myself decided to take up the mantle of philanthropist and act as an independent educator and science communicator for the benefit of the advancement of knowledge as well as forming long-term collaborations with effective partners. I have also provided (at my own expense) several resources, such as observational facilities and teaching tools which can be used in the field eg a NexStar Evolution 8” with StarSenseAutoAlign telescopes to both Copperbelt University, Kitwe and Chancellor College, Zomba. Furthermore, I have also now gained approval by Las Cumbras Observatory for these universities to have access to LCO’s remote telescopes and other online facilities. I regularly visit Malawi and Zambia, as well as Tanzania and Zimbabwe giving lectures on astrochemistry and astrobiology, as well as space travel and more general inspirational talks including lateral thinking and the psychology of achievement. My latest project is working with Chancellor College, Malawi to establish an astrochemistry lab so that their students can do actual research which should produce publishable results. This would be a major boost for them in terms of getting a foothold in the global science world. Ultimately the challenge is to encourage African students to become involved and active in space science and then to support them should they wish to take up a career in this field. There are many difficulties to overcome, including lack of awareness and inclusion with the wider world, as well as a severe lack of funding. The many talented and able students who could become assets in these scientific fields are missing out and, if only they had the opportunity, they could really develop their capabilities and become excellent researchers and astronomers.