The Opening Ceremony of the 13th Science Promotion Week Event Was Held

The 13th Science Promotion Week was inaugurated on 9 November 2024, coinciding with the observance of World Science Day for Peace and Development, at the Minar Dome Planetarium in the Abbasabad Cultural and Tourism Zone. Special programs marking the occasion will continue through Thursday, 14 November 2024.

World Science Day for Peace and Sustainable Development provides an opportunity to strengthen the links between societies and science and to raise awareness of scientific advances at the global level. The Day highlights the important role of scientists in increasing public understanding of the state of our planet and in contributing to the development of sustainable societies. In Iran, Science Promotion Week is held annually to coincide with this international observance.

At the opening ceremony, Dr. Hassan Fartousi, Secretary-General of the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO; Seyed Mohammad-Hossein Hejazi, Managing Director of the Abbasabad Cultural and Tourism Zone; Dr. Gholamreza Goodarzi, Head of the Statistical Centre of Iran; Dr. Javad Darvish, Director of the Foundation for the Advancement of the Humanities; Dr. Akram Ghadimi, President of the Iranian Association for the Promotion of Science and UNESCO Chair in Science Promotion; and Mehrasa Moradi, Head of the Natural Sciences Section of the UNESCO Office in Tehran, delivered remarks.

The text of the speech delivered by the Secretary-General of the Iranian National Commission for UNESCO is as follows:

“In the Name of God, the Creator of Wisdom

Dr. Ghadimi, esteemed President of the Iranian Association for the Promotion of Science,

Dr. Goodarzi, esteemed Head of the Statistical Centre of Iran,

Distinguished representatives of the UNESCO Office in Tehran, the Institute for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults, and the Abbasabad Cultural and Tourism Complex,

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

We have gathered here today to commemorate World Science Day for Peace and Development; a day that reminds us of the importance of science and technology in our lives and their role in transforming and advancing societies, while also providing an opportunity to celebrate scientific achievements.

From the discovery of fire to today’s digital age, scientific advances have continually guided us towards a brighter and better future. Science has not only deepened our understanding of the world, but has also improved our quality of life, enabled the development of new technologies and, consequently, contributed to addressing many of the challenges facing humanity. Each of these innovations is the result of sustained scientific endeavor; from medicines that safeguard our health to smartphones that constantly command our attention. Science has empowered us to travel vast distances in the shortest possible time, communicate with people across the world and gain access to vast sources of information.

Science, however, is not merely a body of knowledge and information; it is also a way of approaching life. It teaches us to view the world with curiosity, to ask questions and to seek new answers. It is in this sense that the saying ‘knowledge is power’ finds its meaning.

In August 2023, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the period from 2024 to 2033 as the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development. Led by UNESCO, the Decade aims to bring together a broad range of scientific disciplines; including the basic and applied sciences, the social sciences and humanities, as well as interdisciplinary and emerging fields to contribute to transformative change in societies, economies and the environment.

Promoting international cooperation in science and technology, expanding access to scientific education and strengthening research capacities in developing countries are among the principal objectives of the Decade. Its designation provides an opportunity for people around the world to share knowledge and resources and to work together towards a more sustainable and equitable future. By advancing scientific literacy and encouraging cooperation among governments, United Nations agencies, the private sector and civil society, the Decade seeks to strengthen the role of science in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and in working towards a safer, more prosperous and more peaceful future for all.

In line with the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development, this year’s theme for World Science Day has been designated as ‘Harnessing the Power of Thought and Empowering the Future.’ The theme underscores the vital importance of creative thinking and innovation in advancing science and technology and in shaping a brighter and better future.

Creative and innovative thinking means going beyond the frameworks to which our minds have become accustomed; having the courage to question and explore the unknown; and enabling us to approach the challenges before us from fresh and innovative perspectives. Is it not true that the greatest inventions and discoveries throughout history have emerged from creative and critical thinking? From ancient times through the Industrial Revolution and the Information Age, and into the present and the future, history bears witness to the unparalleled power of creative thought.

It is therefore important to remind ourselves of our responsibility to encourage young people and future generations to think freely and creatively, while nurturing in them a strong commitment to human and universal values. In this way, we can hope that future generations in our country and around the world will lead ethical and humane lives and pursue innovative solutions to the challenges that lie ahead.

At this juncture, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all those who have contributed to commemorating this important day and organizing this distinguished gathering, particularly Dr. Ghadimi, President of the Iranian Association for the Promotion of Science and UNESCO Chair, as well as to all scholars and distinguished guests for their presence and engagement.”