AERAP 2021: Astronomy as a Unique Engine for Education and Development, June 18

Astronomy – a Unique Engine for Education and Development
Jun 18, 2021 11:00 AM Brussels time
Astronomy is an effective tool for international development because it combines fundamental science and cutting-edge technology with culture and inspiration. Putting this into practice is the pioneering mission of the International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development in Cape Town, its network of 11 regional offices throughout the world and is the topic of this session.
The talks will focus on the unique contribution that astronomy, its technology and its inspirational power, can make in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG4 (Education), SDG9 (Infrastructure & Innovation), SDG13 (Climate Action) and SDG16 (Peaceful inclusive societies). Particular attention will be paid to how exposing children from a very young age to the beauty and enormity of the Universe can contribute to forming their value systems, developing their sense of globalism and fostering universal solidarity. This unique approach can help counteract the several global threats that face the survival of our planet.
The session will conclude with a discussion about how astronomy can most effectively be used to advance the SDGs within Africa and Europe and how policy-makers can stimulate relevant fundamental actions to accomplish this most effectively.

11:00 – 11:15  THE POWER OF ASTRONOMY FOR DEVELOPMENT 
Kevin Govender, Director IAU Office of Astronomy for Development

11:15 – 11:30   MESSAGE TO UN GA75 DIALOGUE
Minister Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor, South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (prerecorded)

11:30 – 11:35  MESSAGE TO UN GA75 DIALOGUE
Barry Andrews, MEP European Parliamentary Delegation for Relations with South Africa  (prerecorded)

11:35 – 11:50   PALE BLUE DOT – IGNITING THE SPARK OF GLOBALISM AND RESPECT FOR THE SDGS IN VERY YOUNG CHILDREN
Cecilia Scorza, Faculty of Physics, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich.

11:50 – 12:05   ASTROTOURISM FOR SUSTAINABLE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Sonal Asgotraa and Paras Loomba, Global Himalayan Expedition AstroStays Project

12:05 – 12:20   Astronomy driving developments in “Big Data” and Advanced Computing
Nikhita Madhanpal, DARA Big Data Fellow, IAU Office of Astronomy for Development

12:20 – 13:00   Discussion: Astronomy for Development: European African Collaborations – Horizon Europe and Beyond 
Panel from IAU Regional IAU OAD offices in Europe and Africa