The East African Astronomical Society (EAAS) was established to unite astronomers from Eastern African countries—Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Rwanda—under a common umbrella to promote the development of astronomy in the region. The Society aims to harness astronomical knowledge, tools, and technologies to benefit society and contribute to regional socio-economic development.
One of the key activities of EAAS has been the organization of astronomically leveraged development intervention meetings across member countries. These meetings have served as platforms for sharing scientific and technological knowledge and skills in astronomy and astrophysics, fostering collaboration, and promoting education and outreach. They have also included democratic leadership elections, ensuring continuity and sustainability of the Society.
However, despite its long-standing existence, EAAS has recently faced critical challenges, particularly in sustaining effective leadership. This has put the Society at risk of collapse. Fortunately, the legacy of the IAUGA 2024 in Cape Town provided a valuable opportunity for EAAS members to reconnect and discuss strategies for revitalizing the organization.
To build on this momentum, we propose the 2025 EAAS Workshop and General Assembly (EAASW-2025) to be held in Uganda. This workshop will bring together professionals, astronomy enthusiasts, policy makers, and postgraduate students from EAAS member countries, as well as participants from across Africa and beyond. The event will foster regional collaboration, share recent research, promote astronomy education and outreach, and stimulate public engagement with astronomy.
In addition to the scientific program, a key outcome of the workshop will be the election of new EAAS leadership—a crucial step toward strategic planning and long-term sustainability of the society. This democratic process will ensure transparency, inclusiveness, and the emergence of dynamic leadership within EAAS. The event will:
• Feature conference talks and posters from researcher, with special emphasis palced on students and early-career scientists.
• Provide training in data science, programming, and astronomy tools for postgraduate students and early-career researchers
• Strengthen regional collaboration and governance through leadership elections and adoption of a new strategic plan.
• Promote STEM education and outreach in schools and the public.
• Promote astro-tourism and Entrepreneurship in astronomy initiatives
• Foster inclusivity by providing travel support and hybrid participation to ensure access for underrepresented groups
The project responds directly to UN SDGs 4 (Quality Education), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by using astronomy as a tool for skills development, regional integration, and science diplomacy.
Funded by the Development in Africa through Radio Astronomy (DARA), a project under the UK Science and Technologies Facilities Council
