On June 5, 2024, an important seminar on “Science, Technology, Innovation and Digital Cooperation” took place. The event, which gathered hundreds of participants, is part of the seminar series “UNESCO Chairs: Towards a Pact for the Future”, running from March to July 2024. These seminars aim to prepare for the UN Summit in September 2024, where the Pact for the Future will be presented.
The world stands on the brink of significant changes. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated in his report “Our Common Agenda”: “Humanity faces a stark and urgent choice: a breakdown or a breakthrough.” The climate crisis, technological innovations, growing inequality, democratic backsliding, and conflicts demand decisive action.
The main goal of the UN Summit is to strengthen international cooperation. The expected outcome of the Summit is the Pact for the Future, which will solidify collective commitments to addressing global challenges and reinforcing multilateralism.
Objectives of the Seminar:
- To raise awareness about international development and cooperation.
- To provide opportunities for dialogue and exchange among researchers, scientists, and students.
- To strengthen cooperation between members of the UNITWIN/UNESCO Chairs program and other partners.
The seminar was opened by Dr. Amal Kasry, Chief of the Section for Basic Sciences, Research Innovation, and Engineering in the Natural Sciences Sector at UNESCO, who emphasized the importance of science and technology in achieving sustainable development goals.
Panel Discussions:
- Ismael Rafols, Chairholder, UNESCO Chair on Diversity and Inclusion in Global Science, Leiden University, Netherlands: Advocated for open science as a value-driven approach that promotes equality and participation.
- Sujatha Raman, Chairholder, UNESCO Chair on Science Communication for the Public Good, Australian National University, Australia: Emphasized the importance of dialogue between different knowledge systems.
- Rajesh Tandon, Co-Chairholder, UNESCO Chair in Community-based Research and Social Responsibility in Higher Education, PRIA, India: Advocated for the integration of local knowledge into scientific research for sustainable development.
The seminar highlighted the importance of digital cooperation, open science, and inclusive innovation for sustainable development. By embracing these principles and promoting international cooperation, we can ensure that scientific advancements benefit everyone, especially the most vulnerable populations. May this seminar serve as a catalyst for action towards a future where science and technology are the driving forces for sustainable development.
The next UNESCO Chairs Seminar: Youth and Future Generations Wednesday 26 June 2024, 14:00-15:30 Paris Time