World Science Day – 2024 celebrated in Islamabad

Go Back

ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF), UNESCO, Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF) and Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS) organized an event to mark World Science Day for Peace and Development through raising awareness about the critical role of science in modern society and its impact on addressing contemporary global challenges.

Celebrated annually since 2001, World Science Day highlights the vital role science plays in society and fosters public engagement in discussions about key scientific issues.

This year’s theme, “Why Science Matters – Engaging Minds and Empowering Futures,” underscores the significance of science in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future.

The event was attended by the students specially girls, teachers, government officials, scientists, researchers, science communicators, and journalists who actively engage in the field of science.

Dr. Akram Shaikh, Member Science of PSF welcomed the distinguished guests and the participants. He also highlighted five years scientific activities/contribution of PSF.

President ECOSF Prof. Seyed Komail Tayebi also attended the event as co-organizer and guest of honor. In his speech, Prof. Tayebi said that this year's theme "Why Science Matters – Engaging Minds and Empowering Future" is extremely important to understand as to why science matters. Science matters because it helps us understand the world around us and improve our lives. Science gives us tools to explore and answer questions about the universe, he added.

Science is also important because it helps solve problems and create new things possible. From finding cures for diseases to creating new technologies like smartphones and electric cars, science allows us to invent and protect the world we live in. Prof. Tayebi further said that in the context of economic development, science is the catalyst for creating a pool of skilled professionals and entrepreneurs and it lays the foundation for industries to flourish, drives research and innovation, and ensures a country's competitiveness in the international arena.

Dr. Aneel Salman who was keynote speaker made a comprehensive speech and talked about latest trends and technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Applications, scientific innovations in AI and autonomous systems in the arts, health, and social sectors are reshaping our world. With the focus on Pakistan, Dr. Salman also made five propositions such as Research and Development as National Priority, STEAM Education, Create a Supportive Ecosystem for Startups and Innovation, Leverage Science for Climate Resilience and Sustainable Agriculture and Empower Women in Science and Technology.

The event also featured insightful remarks from Mr. Kar Hung Antony Tam, Officer-in-Charge of UNESCO Office in Pakistan, emphasizing the engagement of youth and women in science, technology and innovation.

An interactive science show for students was also conducted by Mr. Abdul Rauf and his team from Pakistan Science Club. The session focused on making science fun and accessible, aiming to ignite students’ interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

In his address, Chief Guest Prof. Dr. Aslam Baig, Secretary General, Pakistan Academy of Sciences, highlighted the role of Pakistani scientists in supporting the country in the advancement of nuclear technology.

He also emphasized on the importance of science and technology for Pakistan’s development.

The event was a reminder of science’s transformative potential and underscored the importance of empowering future generations to contribute to a sustainable and resilient Pakistan.