For science journalists worldwide who can't make it to South Africa this December, the World Conference of Science Journalists (WCSJ 2025) is breaking barriers by launching virtual participation. The opportunity provides them with access to innovative storytelling approaches and discussions on important journalism topics, including artificial intelligence, misinformation, environmental challenges, and mental health within the newsroom, all accessible from the comfort of their homes or offices.
WCSJ 2025 takes place from 1 to 5 December 2025. Registration for the in person event, in Pretoria, South Africa, is still open. Live-streamed access to all sessions on the official conference programme on 2, 3 and 4 December is now also available at an online only rate of R550 (around USD 30) per day, or R1400 (around USD 80) for all three days.
WCSJ 2025 conference director Engela Duvenage says: “WCSJ 2025 is traditionally an in-person event that provides a space for ideas to be exchanged, best practices shared, and professional networks built across cultures and borders. By offering a streaming option, to be viewed live or via a recording, we are extending the reach of the conference in South Africa even further, to newsrooms and workspaces worldwide.”
The 13th World Conference of Science Journalists 2025 (WCSJ 2025) plays a critical role in developing the global science journalism and communication landscape, making attendance an invaluable experience for science journalists, communicators, researchers, and stakeholders. It is the flagship event of the World Federation of Science Journalists (WFSJ).
One of the foremost benefits is the opportunity to engage with a diverse, international community of science journalism and communications professionals, and to learn from some of the best in the field. The conference theme, "Science Journalism and Social Justice – our role in promoting resilience," highlights the profession’s power in fostering understanding and strengthening societies amid challenges like health crises, climate change, and social inequality.
Attending WCSJ 2025 provides access to an inspiring, relevant, and stimulating programme designed not only to inform but to enhance professional skills. Participants can expect workshops, panel discussions, and masterclasses led by leading experts covering topics such as ethical journalism, countering misinformation, AI in newsrooms, and innovative storytelling techniques.
“Beyond skills development the conference offers the chance to discover groundbreaking science coming especially from Africa, the host continent, showcasing innovation and research often underrepresented in mainstream global coverage,” said Lynne Smit, senior editor of Nature Africa and a member of the WCSJ local organising committee.
Moreover, the conference fosters resilience among science journalists themselves by addressing the profession’s evolving challenges such as misinformation, shrinking resources, protectionism, and global conflicts, and the impact that their work can have on the mental health of journalists. It’s a timely forum promoting solidarity, strategic thinking, and practical solutions ensuring the sustainability and impact of science journalism worldwide.
The conference also emphasises the integration of technology into science journalism, exploring AI-driven health innovations, precision medicine, and digital tools that empower journalists to know the pitfalls of AI and how to use it ethically and reach broader audiences effectively and inclusively.