In May 2025, hundreds of science communicators and public engagement practitioners gathered at the Public Communication of Science and Technology (PCST) Conference, exploring the theme “Using Science Communication to Effect Positive Change: Exploring Transitions, Traditions and Tensions”. OUCRU presented four innovative projects, reinforcing its commitment to meaningful, culturally rooted science communication that bridges researchers and the communities they serve.
OUCRU Indonesia’s Public and Community Engagement Officer, Eva Simarmata, emphasised that impactful engagement must respect local traditions and knowledge systems. One featured project used community health collaborators in a locally produced vaccination video for rural parents—making it emotionally resonant and trusted. This highlighted how culturally grounded messaging can encourage public health action.
The conference also explored open science, which promotes collaboration between researchers and communities, noting that engagement should shape the research process from start to finish. However, ongoing barriers remain in Indonesia and other Global South countries, such as limited institutional support and confusion over the roles of communicators, engagement professionals and journalists.
OUCRU’s contributions to PCST 2025 show its leadership in regional collaboration, mentorship and community-driven science. The conference reinforced that inclusive, context-aware engagement is not optional—but essential to equitable and effective research.