What We're Committed To?

The NGO, Migrants' Citizen Science Association (MCSA), is devoted to promoting active participation in citizen science projects and activities among citizens, specifically migrants, and contributing to the acquisition of new knowledge. The organization is committed to fostering the active engagement of migrants in science, society, and policy, ensuring that their opinions are considered, and their contributions are valued.

MCSA acknowledges the significance of collective, experience-based, evidenced-based, and nature-based information gathered through the involvement of migrants in citizen science projects and activities. This information can lead to a more profound understanding of complex issues and the development of sustainable solutions to social and environmental challenges. The organization emphasizes the importance of sustainability in scientific solutions and practices, which necessitate the participation and engagement of diverse stakeholders. Collaborating with various stakeholders is critical in creating sustainable solutions that benefit everyone. The organization believes that scientific knowledge should be accessible, understandable, and relevant to diverse audiences, and it can facilitate best practices in the research process, promoting a deeper understanding of complex issues through adaptive communication. MCSA's focus on participant-centered approaches can enhance engagement strategies for citizen science by aligning with the interests and motivations of migrant members and participants. Since science is perceived as a field for individuals with expertise and higher education, most citizens are intimidated to engage in science in general; thus, it becomes crucial to attract and involve them in scientific projects. Participant-centered approaches such as citizen science can draw and motivate more individuals. MCSA is driven by a citizen science approach that consciously includes migrants, leading to an improvement in science, society, and policy. Furthermore, by making the experience of the citizen scientists engaging and purposeful for them, citizen science can promote an active sustainable environment and communication in citizen science in general. Citizen science can therefore achieve inclusivity, equity, and relevance to diverse communities, leading to more effective and inclusive scientific research and decision-making.

MCSA Activities

The Migrants' Citizen Science Association (MCSA) offers a range of activities specifically tailored to migrants, prioritizing their participation in citizen science and providing them with opportunities to develop skills, confidence, and knowledge in the field of science. The MCSA activities are designed to empower migrants, foster inclusivity, and create a supportive environment where they can actively engage in scientific research, contribute their perspectives, and gain valuable experiences. Here are some of the activities offered by MCSA:

• MCSA Book Club

  The MCSA Book Club provides a platform for migrants and community members to come together and explore science-related literature. This avenue allows participants to learn, discuss, and express their insights and ideas with respect, promoting intercultural dialogue and knowledge sharing.

• Workshops, Lectures, & Training

  MCSA conducts workshops, lectures, and training sessions to equip migrants with the necessary skills and knowledge to engage in citizen science projects. These activities cover matters related to research methodologies, data collection techniques, data analysis, scientific literacy, and other related subjects. The workshops and training sessions are designed to build capacity and confidence among migrants, enabling them to be actively involved in the scientific processes.

• Public Awareness Campaigns

  MCSA organizes public awareness campaigns to promote the importance of migrant participation in citizen science. These campaigns aim to raise awareness among the general public, policymakers, and stakeholders about the valuable contributions migrants can make to scientific research and decision-making processes. Through these campaigns, MCSA advocates for inclusive policies and practices that recognize and value the expertise of migrants in scientific endeavors.

• Community-Building

  MCSA actively focuses on community building by creating spaces and platforms for migrants to connect, share experiences, and build relationships. These activities may include community events, gatherings, and networking opportunities where migrants can interact with fellow participants, scientists, researchers, and other stakeholders. The community-building initiatives foster a sense of belonging, support, and collaboration among migrants in citizen science.

• Collaborations

  MCSA fosters collaborations between migrants, scientists, institutions, and other citizen science organizations. These collaborations enable migrants to work alongside experienced researchers, gain mentorship, and contribute to collaborative research projects. By partnering with diverse stakeholders, MCSA provides opportunities for migrants to engage in meaningful scientific collaborations, fostering cross-cultural exchange and learning.

• Exposure Trips

  MCSA organizes exposure trips to various scientific and research facilities, ecological sites, or communities where migrants can witness scientific practices firsthand. These trips provide migrants with practical exposure to different scientific disciplines, methodologies, and applications. Through these experiences, migrants can gain a deeper understanding of scientific research and its relevance to society.

• Webinars and Podcasts

  MCSA utilizes webinars and podcasts to disseminate knowledge, share experiences, and provide learning opportunities for migrants. These digital platforms allow migrants to access educational content, expert interviews, and discussions related to citizen science and scientific research. Webinars and podcasts provide a convenient and accessible medium for migrants to enhance their understanding and engagement with science.

• Research and Development

  MCSA supports migrants in undertaking research and development activities. This can include guiding migrants in formulating research questions, designing studies, collecting data, and analyzing findings. By actively involving migrants in the research process, MCSA enables them to contribute to scientific knowledge and gain hands-on experience in research methodologies.

Through these activities, the MCSA aims to empower migrants by equipping them with scientific knowledge, skills, and confidence. By prioritizing migrants in citizen science activities, MCSA creates an inclusive and diverse scientific community that recognizes and values the unique perspectives and expertise that migrants bring to scientific research and decision-making processes.