The launch of Australia’s largest festival, National Science Week, has highlighted the importance of science and maths education and effective science communication, the Australian Academy of Science said today.
Academy President, Professor Suzanne Cory, said: “National Science Week encourages people of all ages to get hands-on with science.”
“National Science Week aims to increase the science literacy of all Australians. Its importance is underlined by recent evidence that Australia’s science literacy is in decline,” she said.
“More than 1.4 million Australians are expected to participate in National Science Week. I am particularly excited about the number of young Australians who may be inspired by this experience to pursue a career in science.”
Professor Cory urged politicians to make science engagement and literacy a top priority in the lead up to the September federal election.
“The Academy calls on all sides of politics to commit to strengthening the Inspiring Australia initiative, and to improving science and maths teaching in all schools through support for the development and national roll-out of proven quality education programs,” she said.
“We are living in an era of profound scientific and industrial advancement.
“Global knowledge is ever expanding and our national progress will depend in large part upon our ability to remain technologically informed and responsive.”
National Science Week runs from 10-18 August and features more than 1700 events and activities, many of which are free.
National Science Week was officially launched at Questacon in Canberra today.
The full schedule of events is available online: www.scienceweek.net.au.
The Australian Academy of Science’s Election Policy, Science Priorities for Australia, is available at www.science.org.au/reports/documents/ElectionPolicy2013.pdf.
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science
