UNESCO observed the first World Science Day for Peace and Development on November 10, 2002, to raise awareness of the importance of science, encourage the responsible use of science, bridge the gap between science and society, highlight the role of science in sustainable development and world peace, promote international collaboration and engage the public in debates on emerging scientific issues
This year’s theme is about Why science matters and how it engages minds while empowering future generations. Science quenches our thirst for knowledge concerning the universe from an atom’s structure to the cosmos’ expanses. It provides a solid foundation for technological and social development. The observation of science engages why and how they work, and what happens. This dynamism fosters healthcare, engineering, and environmental capabilities to answer some of the burning issues in the world. For instance, climate research helps governments implement proper strategies for the environment. Likewise, work conducted in the area of healthcare enables scientists to produce vaccines and remedies that save lives. Science makes societies powerful through knowledge-creation, problem-solving, and preparing the road for a sustainable future.
Let’s see what the industry leaders have to say about it:
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Preeti Bhandary, Founder and Curriculum Director at Little Elly.
“It is said that a child learns ten times faster than an adult. This year World Science Day is about how science engages minds and empowers future generations. Little Elly has structured its curriculum in such a way that it helps tap into the inquisitiveness and curiosity of the children. The preschool’s unique H.A.P.P.Y Curriculum focuses on holistic development and emphasizes five core areas: Health, Acute Senses, Purposeful Fun, Practical Life Skills, and the Yay Approach to learning, promoting exploration and enthusiasm in early education. Practical life skills help the toddlers to have a with such a robust curriculum the foundation of scientific approach among the students is strengthened at a very early age. Hence, paving the way for future scientists.”
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Rachna Heda, COO at Glentree Academy
“The Union Government through National Education Policy (NEP 2020) has proposed various approach where students not only adhere to their routine text book knowledge but are able to implement scientific ideas practically. This helps students engage in ways where they can think out of the box and build a strong scientific foundation. We have recently introduced Earth Lab, this initiative immerses students in the fundamentals of agriculture and gardening, teaching them about various soil types and soil-less growing media. They explore the nutritional benefits of microgreens, understand composting, and learn to use compost in nurturing new plants. Urban gardening techniques, including vertical farming, are also introduced. Through this program children can learn the scientific basis and can grow interestingly. It is days such as World Science Day for Peace and Development that encourage us to have a holistic and multidisciplinary approach towards science.”
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Vallish Herur, Managing Trustee at Prayoga Institute of Education Research
“The natural world around us is full of wonder and beauty, and science offers a systematic way to study and understand it. The excitement and wonder of witnessing this world are experiences that students should engage with as part of their science education. By tapping into each child’s innate curiosity and inquisitiveness, we can bring joy to the process of learning science. Over time, students need to develop a methodical approach to studying science. Building various competencies for learning science systematically is essential, as these competencies translate into broader skills that help manage real-world situations. The focus of quality science education should be on nurturing the right abilities through science learning. A deep appreciation for nature, combined with the development of these competencies, will foster scientific advancement that is sustainable and beneficial to humanity at large”.
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Dr Santosh Bhargav D B, Co-Founder & CTO SpOvum Technologies
“India has always been at the forefront of scientific developments, starting from the invention of zero to Chandrayaan and the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan). These major scientific strides have helped India not only gain global recognition but also grow economically. India has continually pioneered paths of knowledge and innovation, including being among the first to perform in vitro fertilization. Science has played a transformative role in India’s research and development (R&D) landscape, driving innovations that have significantly boosted the economy. With advancements across various fields, Indian scientists and engineers have developed technologies that enhance productivity, create jobs, and elevate India’s global competitiveness. A strong foundation in science has encouraged youngsters to become entrepreneurs and explore new innovative solutions for existing and future problems. Special days like World Science Day for Peace and Development, organized by UNESCO on the 10th of November every year ignite curiosity, motivate youth toward scientific careers, and highlight India’s rich scientific legacy, paving the way for future advancements that strengthen India’s role in global progress. India can enhance its status in science by fostering peace and development around the globe by investing more in research and development that the world nations are working towards. Sustainability, infertility, obesity, quality of life through accessible healthcare, education, and more such aspects are what our country’s young minds need to concentrate on and where investments need to pour in. Such progress will open up numerous avenues for growth that benefit not only national but also international progress while giving value to the efforts of days like World Science Day for Peace and Development.”
