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Science museum, Japan. © Cowardlion/ Shutterstock.com

Celebrating Science Centres and Science Museums        

All people, especially the most vulnerable, can use knowledge and Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) as leverage to develop their own solutions to issues of common concern, thus making inclusive development possible. Engaging and empowering people through science is crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, the mobilization of people largely depends on their access to knowledge and their understanding of how STI can contribute to improving their future.

Science, like society, is highly diverse. Each year, World Science Day for Peace and Development offers an opportunity to demonstrate why science is relevant to people’s daily lives and to engage them in debates on related issues. In 2016, the celebration focuses on science centres and science museums to highlight their important contribution to science communication.

Citizens’ participation in governance is the core of democracy and an indispensable prerequisite for the empowerment of people. Science communication is crucial for public participation and engagement and in this regard, science centres and museums’ role goes beyond providing information on scientific issues. They are places where people can come together and explore the very mysteries that make up our world. They are fostering creativity, increasing scientific literacy, supporting teachers to inspire their students in STEM, improving the quality of science education and promoting learning experiences within a social context, as well as changing possible negative perceptions of the impact of science on society, thus attracting youths to science careers and encouraging them to experiment and expand our collective knowledge.

© UNESCO/P. Chiang-Joo. Celebration of World Science Day for Peace and Development at UNESCO.

The ties between science, policy and society must be strengthened: research and development must be harnessed to help society solve critical problems such as access to energy, health care and food security. Science centres and museums are undergoing a profound evolution, from mere exhibition spaces to platforms that facilitate dialogue between the scientific community, policy makers and the society at large. They can also act as communication hubs on key issues and contribute to raising awareness, increasing engagement and encouraging participation of all citizens.

Since its foundation, UNESCO has invested great effort to promote science communication. One of the Organization’s main objectives is to mobilize and engage a broad range of stakeholders in the science policy debate. Additionally, bridging the gap between scientists, policy makers and the community is an ideal way to bring the benefits of science to the people, to contribute to socio-economic and cultural development for a sustainable future, and to establish a culture of peace and non-violence through science diplomacy.

© UNESCO-Kathleen Chiappetta
Young children learning about microscience, at UNESCO headquarters, on 11 November 2013, for World Science Day.

UNESCO Science Report

Most countries, regardless of their level of income, now see research and innovation as key to fostering sustainable economic growth and furthering their development, according to the "UNESCO Science Report - Towards 2030" 

Celebrate the Day

 

Check back for updates! New resources and information will be added to this page regularly.

 

Credit: Henze, NASA
3D simulation of merging black holes following Einstein's theory of general relativity.

Previous Celebrations

Established by UNESCO in 2001, World Science Day for Peace and Development is celebrated worldwide on 10 November each year.

© Mariakraynova/ Shutterstock.com
Planetarium, Russian Federation