International Day of Engagement in Science for Sustainable and Development Date in the current year: November 27, 2025

In April 2025, UNESCO designated November 27 as the International Day of Engagement in Science for Sustainable Development. Ukraine initiated the resolution, which was co-sponsored by 34 other countries: Albania, Armenia, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Croatia, Egypt, Estonia, Georgia, Greece, India, Japan, Latvia, Lebanon, Liberia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mauritania, Morocco, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sudan, Uruguay, and Yemen.

November 27 was chosen in honor of Borys Paton’s birthday. Paton was a renowned Ukrainian scientist famous for his work in electric welding and served as chairman of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine from 1962 until his death in 2020. Coincidentally, November 27 is also the official founding anniversary of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine; the academy and Paton were both born on November 27, 1918.

The International Day of Engagement in Science for Sustainable Development promotes the exchange of experience, expertise, and innovation, providing scientists and other stakeholders with the knowledge, tools, and platforms necessary to achieve sustainable development goals. This initiative targets members of the scientific community, educational institutions, civil society, NGOs, and other stakeholders who are working to formalize scientific engagement as a foundation for sustainability, peace, and security.

Science and scientists play a crucial role in shaping every sphere of society, addressing existing challenges and uncovering new ones. However, science, research, and innovation cannot successfully resolve complex social, economic, and environmental issues without dynamic relationships between science, education, policymakers, and the public.

Bridging the gaps between these sectors and encouraging engagement in science is necessary to facilitate knowledge sharing and empower scientists worldwide. Engagement in science can enhance science education and literacy and create stronger connections between education, science, research, policymakers, and the public.

The International Day of Engagement in Science for Sustainable Development aims to foster an environment in which scientific achievements and contributions are recognized, valued, and applied for the benefit of the entire world. This environment allows scientists, educators, and the public to discuss the benefits and risks of the scientific impact on our daily lives.

This approach makes it possible to understand and address issues more effectively, while also identifying new perspectives and forms of knowledge that can increase scientific impact. Continuous, science-based collaboration with governments fosters societal trust and promotes the development of inclusive communities where everyone participates in achieving the greater good.