Plateau State Government through the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation has joined the global community to celebrate this year’s World Science Day for Peace and Development with line up of activities.
Briefing journalists on Monday at the NUJ Secretariat in Jos. as parts of activities to mark the day, the state commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Cletus Shurkuk, underscored the significant of the day and the power and benefits of scientific discoveries.
He said World Science Day for Peace and Development is celebrated annually on November 10 to highlight the vital role of science in society and the need to engage the wider public in discussions on emerging scientific issues and to also emphasizes the relevance of science in our daily lives.
“This annual observance, led by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), underscores the importance of science in fostering peace, promoting sustainable development, and improving lives globally. The inaugural celebration took place on November 10, 2002, under UNESCO’s leadership, with participation from governments, research institutions, media, and educational organizations.”
Dr. Shurkuk said, beyond providing technical solutions, science creates unique opportunities for international cooperation.
“This event offers a moment to reflect on the kind of science and the kind of relationship between science and society that will be needed to meet the demands of the coming decades. World Science Day for Peace and Development aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting the role of science in building a better future.”
The commissioner noted that the event also aimed to ensure that citizens are kept informed of developments in science, strengthen public awareness of the role of science in peaceful and sustainable societies and promote collaboration in scientific research
Adding that is to also encourage the responsible use of scientific knowledge for societal benefit and draw attention to the challenges faced by science and raise support for scientific endeavors
“Science is central to addressing global issues such as climate change, health crises, and technological equity. It is essential to peace-building, offering practical, sustainable solutions to contemporary global challenges.”
According to Dr. Shurkuk, this year’s theme, “Trust, Transformation, and Tomorrow: The Science We Need for 2050,” aligns with the vision of Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State who is committed to ensuring peace and development in Plateau State through science, technology, innovation, and the promotion of a smarter Plateau for socioeconomic growth.
“It also sets the stage for the celebration of the Plateau State Festival of Innovation, Science, and Technology, approved by the governor. This festival will showcase selected innovations emerging from the Plateau State. If there is a better time to tell the Plateau story, that time is now. As a ministry, we would ensure continuous engagement with the academia, private sectors and other stakeholders to ensure a better Plateau,”
Other activities lined up to celebrate World Science Day for Peace in Plateau State includes, Lectures on the state’s efforts in advancing science, Panel discussions, Exhibitions, Quizzes, Visits to selected schools and Counselling on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). among others.
