As a well-established feature of the African journalistic landscape, the Siemens Pan Africa Profile Awards for 2007 is now open to entries from journalists whose work has helped make science and technology more easily understood with new categories that aim to attract a broader submission of entries.
The coverage of science and technology in the African press is insufficient. Less than 2% of editorial space in some of the country’s top publications is awarded to these topics, according to a study conducted by the Department of Journalism at the University of Stellenbosch (US). Carine van Rooyen, author and study leader, reports. The poor relationship between the media and science has been on the international agenda since the World Congress on the Public Communication of Science and Technology in the early 90s. It has been more than a decade, and yet it seems as if this global priority has not filtered through to the local press.
Sigi Proebstl, CEO of Siemens Southern Africa, says the Profile Awards are the only pan-African awards devoted exclusively to science and technology reporting, an area of media activity that is increasingly important for the continent as African countries compete for a place in a new world order characterised by the Information Age and rapid advances in technology.
“It is our firm belief that science and technology reporting needs to be continuously accelerated and improved on the continent in order to demystify these vitally important subjects that have the potential to impact massively on the lives of all Africa’s people,” says Proebstl. “The recognition and reward of those writers, broadcasters and producers who effectively do this, therefore, is an important task.”
Making it easier for entrants to categorise their work as well as broadening the potential scope of entries, the Award categories in the subjects of science and technology have been changed. For 2007, the new categories are Healthcare; Industry; Mobility (Transportation); Safety and Security; Information Technology (Business Process and Outsourcing); Energy; Research and Development; and Corporate Responsibility with a science and technology slant.
“From the winners of each of the categories, an overall grand prize is awarded for the best piece of science and technology journalism of 2007,” says Proebstl.
Since the launch of the Siemens Profile Awards six years ago, the number of entries has grown steadily, as well as the number of countries participating, especially since the opening of the competition to countries across the African continent.
“Entries from French-speaking countries have grown substantially, and it is pleasing to note that these nations featured prominently amongst the 2006 Award winners,” he says.
In spite of the increasing number of entries, given the importance of radio and television in spreading messages across the continent, especially in the more remote regions, Proebstl says these two media are vitally important channels in the communicating the benefits offered by developments in science and technology to Africa’s people.
“In spite of a rising number of print entries, there has been a decline in submissions from radio and television,” says Proebstl. “We would therefore especially urge journalists, producers and broadcasters in these areas to submit their work for adjudication and look forward to receiving their entries.”
About Siemens:
Siemens (Berlin and Munich) is a global powerhouse in electrical engineering and electronics. Founded 155 years ago, the company has around 475,000 employees working to develop and manufacture products, design and install complex systems and projects, and tailor a wide range of services for individual requirements. Siemens provides innovative technologies and comprehensive know-how to benefit customers in over 190 countries. The company focuses on the areas of Information and Communications, Automation and Control, Power, Transportation, Medical, and Lighting.
About Siemens Southern Africa:
Siemens has had a presence in South Africa since 1860 when the company installed the first telegraph line linking Cape Town and Simon’s Town. Today, Siemens offers a balanced portfolio of technologies that includes automation, power, medical, communication, transportation, security, industrial solutions and business services, amongst others. The unique ability to offer horizontal, customised, end-to-end technology solutions enables Siemens to keep its customers one-step ahead. As a committed corporate citizen, Siemens has active corporate social investment programmes as well as a comprehensive approach to local content, manpower development, skills and training. Further information is available on the Internet at www.siemens.co.za.
Enquiries: Sithembile Mokaeane
Manager: Media Relations
Siemens Southern Africa
Tel: (011) 652 2146
Fax: ( 011) 652 2446
