A group of journalists from various media outlets in Senegal has established the Platform of Journalists in Space Sciences (PJS) to promote reporting on space-related topics. The platform was launched during a constitutive meeting held in Dakar on October 27, 2026. The initiative aims to bring together media professionals interested in space sciences, astronomy, satellite technologies, and space exploration. This move comes as space occupies an increasingly important place in the scientific, economic, and technological development of nations.
The creation of PJS is driven by the need to enhance journalists' skills in handling space-related information and to promote rigorous and accessible media coverage of scientific and technological advancements. The platform also seeks to improve the public's understanding of space-related issues. To achieve this, PJS has already partnered with the Senegalese Agency for Space Studies (ASES). This collaboration reflects the desire to bring media professionals closer to sectoral actors and to provide access to reliable scientific information.
The partnership between PJS and ASES is expected to strengthen exchanges, promote access to reliable scientific information, and contribute to the popularization of space activities in Senegal. Through this dynamic, PJS aims to facilitate the sharing of experiences among media professionals, encourage specialized training, develop collaborations with scientific and space institutions, and promote the popularization of space sciences among the general public, particularly young people.
During the constitutive meeting, a bureau was established to oversee the platform's activities. Oumar Fédior, head of the Economy department at Le Soleil newspaper, was elected as the head of PJS. The platform's objective is to become a reference framework for the development of space journalism in Senegal, promoting reliable, independent, and accessible information on space activities and their impact on populations.
PJS plans to achieve its goals by fostering a community of media professionals interested in space sciences and promoting the exchange of knowledge and experiences. The platform also aims to develop collaborations with institutions involved in space sciences and to encourage the dissemination of accurate and accessible information on space-related topics.
The launch of PJS has been welcomed by media professionals and stakeholders in the space sector. The platform's initiators are inviting journalists, media professionals, and actors interested in space sciences to join this initiative, which is expected to contribute to the development of scientific journalism and the promotion of space culture in Senegal.
As PJS begins its activities, it is expected to play a significant role in promoting space science reporting in Senegal. With its partnership with ASES and its plans to develop collaborations with other institutions, the platform is well-positioned to become a key player in the country's space sector. The platform's success will depend on its ability to engage media professionals and stakeholders in the space sector and to promote accurate and accessible information on space-related topics.
Key points
- The Platform of Journalists in Space Sciences aims to promote rigorous and accessible media coverage of scientific and technological advancements in Senegal.
- PJS has partnered with the Senegalese Agency for Space Studies to strengthen exchanges and promote access to reliable scientific information.
- The platform plans to develop collaborations with institutions involved in space sciences and to encourage the dissemination of accurate and accessible information on space-related topics.
