World Science Day for Peace and Development is an annual UNESCO observance held every 10 November. It highlights the significant role of science in society and the need to engage the wider public in debates on emerging scientific issues. The day was proclaimed by UNESCO in 2001 and has since become a key moment for raising public awareness of science’s contribution to sustainable development and peace.
Events are organised worldwide at universities, science centres, schools, research institutions, and public spaces. Activities range from open laboratory days and public lectures to school workshops and science cafés. Each year brings a specific theme — past themes have focused on trust in science, basic sciences for sustainable development, and building climate-ready communities.
For the STREAM IT community, World Science Day represents a strategic opportunity to promote science engagement activities, particularly those targeting girls and women. It aligns directly with the project’s aim of increasing public engagement with science and reducing gender disparities in STEM participation.
More information: https://www.unesco.org/en/days/science-peace-development