Science Education
The steady decline of enrollment of young people in science is cause for concern, and it is in this endeavor that UNESCO’s work in Science Education aims to make a difference.
In a world that is increasingly shaped by science and technology, the team recognizes this and has made it its mission to not only spread education but to make an interest in the Sciences a prominent and lasting feature wherever it is offered.
Through different methods, we push for updating curricula where needed, offering hands-on workshops, providing kits and guidebooks free of charge, training teachers and students alike, and finally helping Member States ensure that a sound basis in Science is not a just privilege.
UNESCO lists Women and Africa as priority areas for development, thus Science Education aims not only to generate a more science-oriented youth, but places particular emphasis on the education of girls. It also hopes to have a positive impact on economic and social development by influencing teachers and curriculum planners.
Microchemistry kits, for example, provide a hands-on approach to teaching young students. Supplementary guide books and textbooks are made available free of charge for teachers and students. Working hand-in-hand with the UNESCO mandate on Science, Science Education applies its capacities in a wide variety of sectors, as our projects show.
From the 'World Library of Science' interface to 'Girls into Science', these modules are trailblazing techniques that ensure UNESCO's vision regarding Education is executed. Science Education can be seen as a practical approach to UNESCO's philosophy. The Unit brings science to less advantaged areas of the world, while abolishing gender stereotypes.