World Science Day for Peace and Development is a valuable opportunity to emphasize the importance of science and research in creating welfare, justice, and lasting peace. This day reminds us that science and knowledge are not only powerful tools for improving the quality of life and addressing global issues, but they also form the foundation of a fair and peaceful world; a world where all individuals have access to their basic rights.
However, as we speak today about the significance of science and education, we witness suffering and injustices around the globe. The humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and the attacks on residential areas in Lebanon are stark examples of this; where students are deprived of their fundamental right to education. Schools and universities in Gaza have been closed due to ongoing crises and relentless assaults by the Israeli regime, leaving thousands of children and youth, who were expected to build a bright future for their communities through knowledge, amidst rubble and bloodshed. Many children and young people in Gaza and Lebanon, instead of pursuing education and learning, struggle with the harsh realities of displacement caused by war and deprivation, losing the opportunity for growth and contribution.
Science, especially when directed towards peace and development, plays an irreplaceable role in building a more sustainable and humane world. True peace is only realized in the shadow of justice and equality in access to knowledge and education. In a world where all individuals have access to education and learning, generations will emerge that, devoid of racism and self-superiority that can lead to genocide, will engage in construction and solidarity while respecting each other's human rights. This is a common responsibility that falls upon all of us: to enable children and youth around the world to benefit from the light of knowledge and to build a world free from oppression, filled with solidarity and mutual respect.
World Science Day for Peace and Development reminds us that supporting the right to education for all and ensuring safe and equitable learning environments is the cornerstone of building a world where inequalities are reduced and equal opportunities are available for everyone. We must strive to make knowledge a bright beacon accessible to all, from Gaza and Lebanon to every corner of the world where people are deprived of their right to education.
Today, on this global day, we feel it is our duty to be the voice of those deprived of education and the rights of students around the world. Lasting peace and development can only be achieved when knowledge, recognized as one of the fundamental human rights, is accessible to all people without discrimination and under any circumstances.
