The World Science Day for Peace and Development 2023 celebration in Pakistan underscores a collective commitment to building trust in science.
In commemoration of the World Science Day for Peace and Development, a collaborative initiative brought together the Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS), UNESCO-Islamabad Office, Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF), and ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF) for a Convention of Scientists at the Pakistan Science Foundation.
Since its inception in 2001, the annual celebration of the World Science Day for Peace and Development serves as a poignant reminder of the indispensable role of science in society. The event encourages public engagement in discussions surrounding emerging scientific issues.
This year’s theme, ‘Building Trust in Science,’ places a spotlight on the pivotal role trust plays in the development and application of evidence-based solutions to address complex global challenges.
Recognizing the ever-growing impact of science on daily life and its influence on scientific work and societal perceptions, the partners in Pakistan chose to center their commemoration on ‘Strengthening High-Quality and Equitable STEM Education for Sustainable Development.’
The Convention of Scientists, held at the Pakistan Science Foundation on November 15, 2023, brought together scientists, researchers, science communicators, government officials, and science journalists. The event provided a dynamic platform for thought-provoking discussions on the multifaceted importance of science, its interconnectedness with various aspects of people’s lives, and its implications for sustainable development.
As part of the commemoration, the organizers planned three interactive sessions for students at the Pakistan Museum of Natural History on November 15 and 16, 2023.
These engaging sessions focus on hands-on activities, including DNA extraction from fruits, effective laboratory and science communication, and experiments exploring the concept of inertia. The initiatives aim to cultivate students’ interest in STEM fields and inspire the next generation of scientists.
The World Science Day for Peace and Development 2023 celebration in Pakistan underscores a collective commitment to building trust in science. The emphasis on high-quality STEM education aligns with the broader vision of fostering sustainable development through science-based knowledge and education.
The event’s theme, ‘Building Trust in Science,’ resonates with the global recognition of the importance of trust in scientific endeavors. Trust is closely linked to the understanding of scientific knowledge and plays a crucial role in informing science-based policy decisions. The celebration in Pakistan contributes to the international dialogue on the significance of science in promoting peace, development, and the well-being of societies.
The collaborative efforts of COMSATS, UNESCO-Islamabad Office, PSF, and ECOSF in observing the World Science Day for Peace and Development 2023 in Pakistan reflect a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge, fostering trust, and inspiring the next generation of scientists through innovative STEM education initiatives.