International conference discusses science communication in the present and future

Vietnam’s Academy of Journalism and Communication (AJC) and the Asian Media Information and Communication (AMIC) jointly held an international conference entitled “Science Communication: Managing the Now and the Future” on November 20.

AJC Director Pham Minh Son delivers his opening remarks at the conference.
AJC Director Pham Minh Son delivers his opening remarks at the conference.

The conference is taking place on November 20, November 27 and December 4 with the participation of speakers from around the world, focusing on science communication theory and models, the role of science communication amid the COVID-19 pandemic; science communication and climate change; and science communication training.

In the opening session, Professor Noam Chomsky from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology said that global issues such as climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic and a chaotic social media environment highlight the importance of science communication.

He noted that journalists and scientists should work together to provide accurate and trusted information to the public.

According to Professor Chomsky, both journalists and the public are facing major challenges, one of which is conflicting science information due to the economic interests of technology and pharmaceutical companies.

He emphasised that social networks like Facebook are creating a polarised information environment, in which people only like and want to hear opinions similar to their own.

Professor Noam Chomsky speaking at the conference via video link

The conference acts as a forum for Vietnamese and international scientists to discuss science communication and the role of science communication amid the information explosion, as the public need accurate and trusted information to build the right perception and guide their actions.

According to AJC Director Pham Minh Son, journalism and science communication have an important role in the fight against COVID-19, noting that only when correct information about the pandemic is widely disseminated can it truly be put under control.

As part of the conference, there will be a plenary session on the pandemic in Vietnam, during which Vietnamese speakers will share about the country’s experience in communication regarding the pandemic, and the battle against inaccurate information on the pandemic.