UNESCO celebrates the International Science Week 2013 in Tehran, Iran, with the theme “Science for Water Cooperation: Sharing data, knowledge and innovations”
UNESCO Tehran Cluster Office celebrated the International Science Week in Tehran from 26 to 31 October 2013 in close collaboration with Iran Association for Popularization of Sciences as well as Iran National Commission for UNESCO. The week-long celebrations were launched at a ceremony held in Milad Tower on 26 October which was attended by the Honorable Minister (a.i) .of Science, Research and Technology, Dr Jafar Tofighi. A joint UN booth was set-up at the Science Week exhibition by UNESCO with contributions from UNICEF, FAO, UNAIDS and UNFPA. Various entities involved in high-tech and innovation displayed their recent advancements in the field of science and technology, i.e., nano-technology, bio-technology, response to natural disasters, etc.
Role of Science in Peace and Development, discussed at Nezami Ganjavi Hall, 30 October 2013
The role of different sectors in popularizing science was discussed in a gathering organized by UNESCO and Iran National Commission for UNESCO which was held at Nezami Ganjavi Hall in the afternoon of October 30th. The gathering looked at the role that different segments of the society can play in popularizing science among different layers of the society from the general public to policy makers. The main theme of this year’s world science day (water cooperation) was the main area of discussions. Other aspects of science and the role of NGO’s, artists, media and imminent scientists such as Prof. Hesabi in popularization of sciences were discussed.
The gathering was opened by welcome address of Dr Saeidabadi as the Secretary General of Iran National Commission for UNESCO followed by keynote remarks by the Head of UNESCO Tehran, Mr Hiranand Purkait. Deputy Minister of Energy for Planning Affairs, Mr Daemi made an interesting presentation about the situation of freshwater resources in the world and Iran. The presentation emphasized on the importance of water cooperation as set for the main theme of 2013 World Science Day for Peace and Development.
Dr Barari, secretary of commission for national science associations, reported on the number of science associations in Iran and their close engagement with the general public as well as policy makers. Dr Nasrin Moazzami, made a comprehensive presentation about the global environmental concerns and the need for scientific cooperation beyond political borders. Mr Hesabi, from Hesabi foundation, shared his remarks about the importance of science education especially among children and youth. Mr Bahram Radan, representing the artist circle, looked to see how arts can communicate the message for applying science in daily lives and peaceful living. Mr Ali Inanlou, well known media person, shared his concerns about environmental degradation and how the media shall work harder to raise awareness among the public as well as authorities.
The meeting came to a close by live piano performance of Mr Pazooki and poetry by Mr Mostakin. The secretary-general of Iran National Commission for UNESCO, Dr Saeidabadi, appreciated all speakers by a Robaaiyat Khayyam’s book.
World Science Day for Peace and Development
Established by UNESCO in 2001, World Science Day for Peace and Development is celebrated worldwide on 10 November each year. It offers an opportunity to demonstrate to the wider public why science is relevant to their daily lives and to engage them in debate on related issues.
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