Following the favourable outcome of the SKA bid for Africa, there is a new focus on astronomy across the continent. This is further supported by the development of the African VLBI Network (AVN). Newly established SKA SA research chairs in South Africa are attracting postgraduate students from all over Africa, while some are already involved in post-doctoral work and early career research. Astronomy courses are also taking off in SKA partner countries across Africa. As in other fields of science, astronomers are under pressure to sustain public and political support for their discipline. Instead of asking whether they have the time or interest to engage public and policy audiences in their word, scientists are now realising that they can no longer afford NOT do to it. It is therefore essential to equip young astronomers with the confidence and skills to engage a wide range of audiences, from young children to senior politicians, successfully. They will play a key role in sharing the inspirational value of astronomy and the bright future of this field with the rest of the continent’s people and youth. This proposal seeks funding for the development and delivery of a three-day course focused on the challenges and opportunities of communicating astronomy, astrophysics and related engineering fields. The course will include training on how to deliver engaging popular talks (“Famelab” style) and how to write popular articles and blogs; as well as hands-on skills on how to prepare for and conduct radio, television and print media interviews. Delegates will also learn how they can package their research for maximum media appeal and how to use a range of social media platforms to engage new audiences. They will be introduced to innovative ways of sharing science via theatre, science cafeÃŒÂs, music, etc. Case studies and evidence from successful astronomy communicators will provide an interactive component and role models. Delegates will also learn how to integrate science
