Citizen Science

Communities as co-creators of knowledge

Definition

What Citizen Science Means at Daystar University

Citizen Science refers to collaborative research approaches in which non-academic actors — community members, civil society organisations, and local practitioners — participate meaningfully in research design, data collection, analysis, and use of findings.

Within the FOSTER Project, Citizen Science advances inclusive, responsible, and socially grounded research, ensuring that scientific knowledge is co-produced with those most affected by societal challenges.

Impact

Why Citizen Science Matters

Citizen Science strengthens research relevance and impact by:

Generating context-specific, real-time data at community level

Empowering citizens as contributors to evidence-based decision-making

Enhancing trust, transparency, and accountability in research

Bridging universities, policymakers, and communities

Supporting action-oriented research that informs policy and practice

This approach aligns with global Open Science principles and contributes directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
FOSTER Project

Citizen Science Within the FOSTER Project

Under Specific Objective 5 (SO5) of the FOSTER Project, Daystar University and its partners are fostering Citizen Science as a sustainable research practice, embedded within institutional structures and supported through Open Science Hubs.

01
Science Shops Model — Community-engaged research inspired by the Science Shops approach.
02
Open Science Hubs — Establishment as coordination spaces for Citizen Science initiatives.
03
Community Partnerships — Development of partnerships with local communities, civil society, public authorities, and research organisations.
04
Inclusive Spaces — Creation of safe, ethical, and inclusive spaces for public participation in science.
In Practice

Daystar University Citizen Science in Practice

At Daystar University, Citizen Science is already being translated into concrete action. A flagship initiative under development focuses on community-driven water and sanitation monitoring in Kibera, Nairobi, where residents are trained and supported as citizen scientists to:

Map water access points and sanitation infrastructure

Monitor water quality and service reliability

Generate data that informs community advocacy and policy dialogue

This initiative demonstrates how Citizen Science can combine rigorous research, community empowerment, and policy relevance, while advancing Open Science principles.

Outcomes

What Citizen Science Delivers

Open datasets and visualisations accessible to communities and decision-makers

Policy briefs and evidence-based recommendations for public authorities and service providers

Community capacity building through training, feedback sessions, and dialogue

Sustained partnerships that extend the reach and impact of university research

Become a Citizen Scientist

Be part of research that makes a difference. Whether you are a student, researcher, community member, or civil society actor, you can contribute to Citizen Science initiatives at Daystar University by supporting data collection, community engagement, knowledge sharing, or advocacy.

Together, we can co-create evidence, strengthen accountability, and advance solutions that respond to community priorities.

Contact the Open Science Hub