If the trust between the public and science is broken, we need to also work extra hard to rebuild it. We need not forget that the public cares about what's true and we need to do a better job at explaining how the scientific community works

Είχα ακριβώς την ίδια αντίδραση!

Behind these 1,032 studies are researchers risking everything to keep science alive and help their community in Tigray. Their work is a testament to resilience and the power of locally driven solutions. Read more below #Tigray #Healthcare #Academia

lefterisasks.substack.com/p/voices-of-...

To understand the changing research landscape, I used tools like Publish or Perish and LDA topic modelling. The analysis revealed persistent themes in healthcare and women’s health, with a noticeable shift toward war-related and environmental topics during and after the conflict.

During my call, Tewelde said, 'In Tigray, we don’t do research to fill gaps; we do research to solve societal problems.' This mindset is a powerful reminder: even amidst chaos, local academics tackle urgent issues—healthcare, food security, and beyond—with unwavering commitment!

I analysed Mekelle University’s output (2020–2024) and found 1,032 publications. In 2020, there were 324 papers—plummeting to 157 in 2021 and 145 in 2022 during the war, then rebounding. A stark story of disruption and resilience.

Του είπες να έρθει με τον κηδεμόνα του;

As Tigray rebuilds, the healing power of culture is more crucial than ever. Share Tesfaye's story and his effort to resist and preserve culture in Tigray. #Culture #Tigray #Academia #AcademicChatter

lefterisasks.substack.com/p/voices-of-...

By analysing Tigrinya proverbs, Tesfaye uncovers deep-seated community wisdom. These time-tested expressions challenge stereotypes and remind us that culture can be a bridge between conflict and reconciliation.

Taken from his article: scholar.google.com/citations?vi...

Long after the dust of conflict settles, literature becomes more than words—it becomes a tool for healing. For Dr. Tesfaye, studying culture isn’t just academic; it’s an act of resistance that turns pain into hope.

Let's hope we'll be fast enough to get tickets before it sells out😅

Share Tewelde’s story if you believe science transcends borders. #AcademicSolidarity #AcademicChatter lefterisasks.substack.com/p/voices-of-...

Yet, he persists—knowing that understanding the problem is the first step toward solving it. ‘Our role as academics is to help our community solve societal problems,’ he insists.

His work aligns with data from Mekelle University showing that 81% of the smallholder households lost their crop during the war. - source: www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10....

In the newly restructured Tigray region, only one rural district out of 56 is food secure. Tewelde conducted interviews to gauge the extent of food insecurity. “You can't sleep well after these interviews”.

And yes, I have to put a small blanket on the radiator. A mix of not being comfortable on the grates, and it being warm. If the blanket is not there, he sits next to it on the floor, looks at me and complains. #cuteness