by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
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.”
It also emphasizes the relevance of science in our daily lives and reminds us of the power and benefits of scientific discoveries.
The Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk, disclosed this while briefing Newsmen at the NUJ Press Center on the activities of World Science Day for Peace and Development.
He disclosed that, “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.”
He emphasized that, “The inaugural celebration took place on November 10, 2002, under UNESCO’s leadership, with participation from governments, research institutions, media, and educational organizations.
“According to UNESCO, beyond providing technical solutions, science creates unique opportunities for international cooperation.
“The 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.”
He added that, “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.”
Worthy of note, he said, “The aim is to ensure that citizens are kept informed of developments in science, strengthen public awareness of the role of science in peaceful and sustainable societies, promote collaboration in scientific research, encourage the responsible use of scientific knowledge for societal benefit, and to draw attention to the challenges faced by science and raise support for scientific endeavors.”
According to him, “Why it matters is because 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.
“By responding to climate crises, epidemics, and resource shortages, science helps mitigate the root causes of many conflicts,” he said.
He posited that, “This year’s theme, ‘Trust, Transformation, and Tomorrow: The Science We Need for 2050,’ invites national and international communities to reflect on the evolving role of science in shaping a peaceful, equitable, safer, smarter, and more sustainable future.
“Trust: Emphasizes the importance of public confidence in science and scientific institutions; Transformation: Focuses on how science can drive innovation and societal change, and Tomorrow: Encourages scientific solutions for challenges anticipated by 2050,” he stated.
“This year’s theme aligns with the vision of Barr Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, who is committed to ensuring peace and development in Plateau State through science, technology, innovation, and the promotion of a ‘Smarter Plateau’ for socio-economic growth.
“It also sets the stage for the upcoming 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. Science is a beautiful gift to humanity; we should not distort it.
Dr. Cletus Shurkuk also revealed that, “Activities lined-up for the program include,
Lectures on the state’s efforts in advancing science; Panel discussions; Exhibitions; Quizzes; Visits to selected schools, and Counseling on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), among others.”
He said, “Science has enabled us to communicate across the globe, explore the mysteries of space, and develop life-saving interventions. The progress we enjoy today is the result of countless scientists, who dared to explore the unknown.
“Science is not just about experiments and theories; it’s about solving real-world problems. It offers solutions to environmental challenges, health crises, and technological hurdles.
The commissioner remarked that; “We must recognize the importance of science in fostering sustainability, peace, and development. Let us work together to ensure that the innovations of today lead to a greener and more prosperous future – built on trust and driven by transformation.”