Minister of Science and Technology Huynh Thanh Dat and representatives from some UNESCO member countries exchanged views on the role of basic sciences in policy-making at a high-level seminar in Paris on July 8.

At the seminar in Paris. Photo: VNA

The seminar took place as part of the opening ceremony of the International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development (IYBSSD 2022) at the headquarters of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

Speaking of lessons drawn from the COVID-19 combat, which have led to changes in the relations between science and policy-making, Dat stressed the need to change the mindset in scientific-technological management, encourage testing and promote innovations.

He suggested forming platforms to share scientific information and data, helping less developed countries to catch up with the world’s scientific and technological trends.

Vietnam is one of the first countries that initiated and promoted the ratification of a resolution on IYBSSD 2022 at the 40th session of the General Conference of UNESCO in October 2019, and the co-author of the resolution in December 2021.

The ceremony in Paris was opened by UNESCO Deputy Director-General Xing Qu, who noted that science could change our world, making it more sustainable. “Let us not simply view sciences as utilitarian, or technical tools. Because basic sciences are also the expression of deeply human need: curiosity, wonder, the world around us. If tomorrow’s world is more sustainable, then it would be thanks to the discoveries made by curious spirit,” he said.

In his speech, Xing Qu paid special attention to such issues as the promotion of women in science and climate change, stressing that UNESCO strives to make the scientific field more open, equal, and fruitful.

Closing remarks are given by Dr Michel Spiro, Chair of the Steering Committee of IYBSSD and President of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics

At the ceremony, Michel Spiro, President of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) and Chair of the Steering Committee of IYBSSD 2022, presented the idea that fundamental sciences, driven by the thirst for knowledge, are the basis for education and the source of discoveries. Eventually, they find practical applications that serve the inclusive sustainable development of the world.

In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency, Spiro said such acts by Vietnam reflect the importance the country attaches to basic sciences in daily activities and sustainable development.

He called for the support from countries, policymakers and the entire society so that basic sciences can achieve targets for sustainable development.

The opening ceremony of the International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development, was held at the UNESCO Headquarters, Paris, France, all day on 8 July 2022.

The International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development recognizes that basic sciences are vital to attain sustainable development and to improve the quality of life for people all over the world.

Ministers in charge of Scientific Research, Higher Education and Innovation debated with scientists about the importance of basic sciences in addressing the challenges set up by the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Scientists from different parts of the world explained what they are already doing, and discussed what they could do better, so that their work, and the way they conduct it, build a more sustainable future.

This opening ceremony is an important step in the journey that scientists, citizens and policy makers will take together throughout this International Year to ensure that basic science plays a full role in efforts to achieve more sustainable development around the world.

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