World Science Day for Peace and Development: Why Science Matters: Engaging Minds and Empowering Futures

By bridging the gap between science and society, the day aims to engage the public in scientific discussions and highlight the impact of science on our daily lives. Ultimately, it seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for science and its potential to address global challenges.

"Science is essential to peacebuilding because it offers practical, sustainable solutions to contemporary global challenges. By seeking responses to climate crises, epidemics and resource shortages, science helps to mitigate the root causes of many conflicts." Ms. A. Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO.

This year, UNESCO celebrates the World Science Day for Peace and Development 2024 is: Why Science Matters: Engaging Minds and Empowering Futures

The International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development (IDSSD) and World Science Day for Peace and Development are closely linked in their shared goal of promoting science for sustainable development and for improving populations' lives. UNESCO has been entrusted with leading the implementation of the Decade declared by the UN General Assembly in August 2023. The Decade recognizes science as a common good for humanity and reaffirms its fundamental role in humanity's quest for a development model that improves the human condition while preserving the planet on which our very survival depends.

Alike World Science Day, the International Decade of Science for Sustainable Development "aims at finding solutions to global challenges" and "restore confidence in science, encourage critical and nuanced thinking, and strengthen worldwide scientific cooperation".

UNESCO regional office for West Africa in Dakar welcomes proposals from all sectors of society in the region interested in contributing to a sustainable future through scientific innovation and collaboration. The Decade is an opportunity for all regions in the World to be at the forefront of a new era in science, making meaningful impacts on society and our planet.: Call for initiatives: International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024-2033) | UNESCO

Science in West Africa:

10 over 15 countries of the West African region have an explicit National Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) policy or plan.

The majority of West African countries have adopted a domestic 'digital agenda'.

West African countries are hosting a growing number of technology hubs but these are struggling to raise sufficient capital.

Women still represented less than 20% of researchers in West Africa.

More facts and figures on science in West Africa : UNESCO SCIENCE REPORT 2021: The race against time for smarter development Chapter 18: WEST AFRICA : link: West Africa - UNESCO Bibliothèque Numérique

UNESCO is organizing a webinar with experts in the field on 12 November at 1 pm UTC to highlight the significant role of science in society and in our daily lives.

Click here to sign up for the webinar.