Today is World Science Day for Peace and Development, a day set aside by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) to create awareness of the importance of science to human race.
World Science Day for Peace and Development was established in 2001 and it is celebrated every November 10th to highlight the role of sciences in the society and its connection to peace and sustainable development.
It also aimed to encourage international scientific cooperation and promote the responsible use of science for the benefit of humanity.
The annual event is usually characterised by activities such as workshops and public discussions to engage wide range of stakeholders including government officials, scientists and the public.
This year’s theme, “Trust, Transformation and Tomorrow: The science We Need for 2050’’, centered on how science can inspire trust, drive transformation and shape a sustainable future for all. The theme also highlights the role of science in building a more just and peaceful world through collaboration and engagement with the society.
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Speaking in an interview with the NewsStandPoint.com, a Lagos based scientist, Uzor Esther affirmed that science has helped in improving everyday life of people by powering essential technologies and innovations.
According to Uzor, “Science explains natural phenomena, improves safety and transforms imagination into practical tools that saves time and resources, making modern living efficient and sustainable’’.
Still on the importance of science to humanity, the scientist said: “Science is very vital to the society, Science educates people, dispel myths and spread awareness on important issues like climate change. pollution and public health.
“It enables scientific management of natural resources. Societies also benefit from science through improved health care facilities, education, contributing to better quality of life and responsible citizenship’’.
On how science has led to the peace of the society, she said that it encourages solutions to conflicts and global challenges through innovation, fair development and inclusive progress.
In addition, she said that science also helps to reduce tensions and support stable and peaceful societies.
To her, science drives national progress by advancing agriculture, industry, healthcare, education and communication. It leads to food security, economic, improved public health and global competitiveness.
Another scientist Odamudiameh Collins who also spoke on the relevance of World Science Day, described it as an opportunity to harness the power of science to drive peace development and prosperity.
Also speaking, another Lagos based scientist, Dr. Gilbert Okpalakunne said that in Nigeria, World Science Day can improve science education; enhance research and development.
The Day also he said can foster innovation and entrepreneurship, address public health challenges and, promote sustainable development.
On the other hand, he called on Nigerian scientists to develop skills that would build peace and development irrespective of the current economic situation facing the country.
“Scientists in the country can develop skills and products that can be marketed across and Africa. In fact they can compete favorable with other scientists across the globe if supported’’
Okpalakunne also stressed the need for Nigerian scientists to review what is being done in the science space adding, “ reviewing the science space is crucial for ensuring research quality and relevance ,advertising on evidence- based national policy , and driving sustainable socio-economic development’’.
