Goal 4: Ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning
Science Centre Singapore is a non-formal educational institute and leading regional Science Centre. Through its unique blend of exhibitions, education programmes and events, it aims to bring out the wonders of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
One of the latest initiatives of the centre would be International Days @ Science Centre Singapore. The curators of this event have selected some International Days recognised by the United Nations and those days are celebrated in the centre with specially designed programmes that are suitable for all ages. The event aims to raise awareness on certain social issues and promote the sustainable development goals, through creative science programmes and activities. As most of these programmes are offered to the general visitors with no additional charges, it allows visitors of diverse backgrounds to actively participate.
Goal 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls
DiscovHER – International Day of Women and Girls in Science was the first International Day observed this year. “DiscovHER” was held in February as part of a global effort to support and promote women and girls in their participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The programmes for “DiscovHER” included hands-on activities, a gallery hunt and a sharing session conducted by local aspiring female researcher. Through these specialised programmes, the centre aims to raise awareness of the work done by women scientists and inspire more women and girls to be curious and learn more about science.
Goal 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
The centre also celebrated International Mother Earth Day with the focus on SDG 13: Climate Change. The various activities conducted within the galleries encouraged participants to play their part in combating climate change by adopting more sustainable practices. One of the activities was an exhibit hunt where participants explored the centre’s Climate Change Climate Challenge exhibition to learn more about the 3Rs – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. After which, they would complete a sorting activity on recyclable materials where they would know more about recyclable materials, including electronic waste that can be recycled.
Goal 15: Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity
A rather unique day commemorated was World Bee Day, where the importance of bees and other pollinators were emphasised. Some fascinating characteristics of bees were shared through hands-on activities such as simulations of pollination and waggle dance. In line with the event’s tagline, BEE our friend, visitors were encouraged to protect our pollinators and support sustainable ways to remove beehives.
Goal 10: Reduced inequality within and among countries
Happy and Healthy, Wise and Wealthy. On International Day for Older Persons, participants had a unique experience of feeling like a 90 year old, by adorning an age simulation suit and carrying out a simple task. They also visited the Dialogue with Time – Embrace Ageing exhibition where a senior guide shares his or her experience of ageing. The event aimed to allow younger visitors to acknowledge ageing as natural process and be more understanding towards seniors, especially since Singapore is facing an ageing population.
Goal 3: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
The most recent International Day observed was World Mental Health Day. In line with the event’s tagline, Be Kind To Your Mind, this day focused on raising awareness of mental well-being. Members of the public participated in a collaborative painting session to show their support for mental health awareness and appreciate the importance of relaxation. Facilitators also shared the science behind mental well-being through attractive infographics that introduces the four happy chemicals released in the brain.
Goal 17: Revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development
Thus far, International Days @ Science Centre Singapore has been well received by the members of the public. Science Centre Singapore is keen to continue to be part of this global effort to raise awareness on the various challenges faced by our people and planet, and encourage all to adopt more sustainable practices. The centre is excited to have more local partners and collaborators to be on-board for this event and aims to grow this event into a bigger national and transnational event. Together, we can raise awareness and inspire solutions for a better future for all.
Read more about International Days @ Science Centre Singapore.
For enquiries, please email Everlyne Tan or Revathy Dasan.
