Background of the project
The Cascade Seed Grants Project was an initiative that brought the wonders of astronomy closer to communities across Africa. It aimed to make science more accessible, inclusive, and inspiring, especially for young people. The project encouraged curiosity about the universe while showing that science is for everyone, no matter where you come from or what resources you have. Through hands-on activities, storytelling, and local role models, the initiative helped learners see how astronomy connects to everyday life and how they, too, can be part of the future of science. By reaching schools, science centres, and community spaces, it created opportunities for learners to explore, ask questions, and imagine careers in science and technology.
The project, launched by the African Astronomical Society (AfAS) Education and Outreach Committee in partnership with the Inter-university Institute for Data-Intensive Astronomy (IDIA) and the IAU General Assembly 2024, provided seed funding to support grassroots astronomy outreach across Africa. The initiative empowered enthusiastic individuals and small teams to design and lead outreach activities in their own communities, fostering local role models who could inspire the next generation of scientists. Built on the Cascade Outreach model, the project emphasized diversity, inclusivity, and empowerment by equipping participants with science communication and leadership skills. Unlike traditional approaches that focus on celebrated scientists as role models, this model prioritized relatability, recognizing that meaningful inspiration often comes from peers and community members who learners can identify with. By supporting locally led initiatives, the Project created a sustainable framework for astronomy engagement that connects directly with African youth, broadening access to STEM education and nurturing future leaders in science.
In total, 28 projects were funded across the continent, empowering enthusiastic individuals and small teams to design and lead outreach activities in their own communities. The initiative fostered local role models who could inspire the next generation of scientists. The funded activities featured interactive astronomy talks covering key topics such as the solar system, stars, galaxies, and black holes, along with sessions on careers in astronomy, data science, and machine learning. Learners were introduced to software tools like Stellarium for virtual telescope demonstrations and simulations, including Solar System Scope and gravity simulators. There were also engaging demonstrations on Earth orientation and the day/night cycle, where facilitators used plastic globe models to illustrate Earth’s position in space, its axial rotation, and how this movement results in alternating day and night.
Some initiatives specifically aimed to inspire high school students from underserved communities by introducing them to STEM careers and the practical applications of astronomy and space science. In several cases, the projects concluded with the donation of stationery supplies, such as books, pens, pencils, rulers, and erasers to support the students’ ongoing academic needs.
Several activities targeted girls and women, recognizing the persistent gender gap in STEM fields. These initiatives created inclusive learning environments where girls could explore astronomy through interactive sessions, mentorship, and discussions led by female scientists and educators. By highlighting women’s contributions to astronomy and offering relatable role models, these projects helped empower girls to see themselves as future scientists, engineers, and innovators, thereby promoting gender equity in science outreach across Africa.
By supporting locally led initiatives, the Cascade Seed Grants Project created a sustainable framework for astronomy engagement that connects directly with African youth, broadening access to STEM education and nurturing future leaders in science.
National Science Week (NSW) 2023
The NSW 2023, an initiative with a strong focus on astronomy and science outreach activities. This effort was part of the larger objective set by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) to promote STEMI (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation) across South Africa.
National Science Week Initiative
- Initiative: The National Science Week (NSW) 2023 Outreach Program, organized by the African Astronomical Society (AfAS) and the IAU-GA 2024 Outreach and Education Committee.
- Main Aim: The core theme was “Transforming lives through evidence-based science.” Secondary aims included promoting astronomy, its career prospects, and sustainable energy research, and contributing to a scientifically literate society by showcasing the value of STEMI.
- Target Audience: Activities were conducted to engage a broad range of participants, including:
- Learners
- Educators
- The General Public
- Students, Researchers, and Scientists
Summary of Implementation by Province
| Province / District | Team Leaders / Organizers | Number of Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Gauteng (City of Johannesburg) | Duduzile Kubheka & Dr. Tshiamiso Makwela (Johannesburg Group Head) | 14 face-to-face outreach activities were hosted, including presentations, quiz games, and motivational talks. |
| Free State (Fezile Dabi District) | Nadine Sims & Lusanda Tamesi | 5 days of face-to-face ONSITE activities and 5 days of face-to-face OUTREACH activities were hosted, including presentations and quizzes. |
| Western Cape (City of Cape Town) | Duduzile Kubheka (overall organizer) | Planned for school talks, presentations, and exhibitions (2 events per day for 5 days) and public sky viewing/engagements (4 evenings). |
| KwaZulu Natal (uThukela District Municipality) | Duduzile Kubheka (overall organizer) | Planned for school talks, presentations, and exhibitions (2 events per day for 5 days) and public mall outreach (2 evenings). |
Cascade seed grants 2024 (profile by country/activities, profile ambassadors)