Western Sydney University launches National Science Week in New South Wales
Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO; NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer, Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte; Dean, School of Health Sciences, Professor Sarah Lewis; Dean, School of Science, Professor Graciela Metternicht; and Director, NICM Health Research Institute, Professor Dennis Chang.
Western Sydney University proudly hosted the launch of National Science Week in New South Wales, at the University’s Campbelltown campus and Rotary Observatory.
In celebration of National Science Week, held 10-18 August, the event showcased the innovative research happening at Western that is empowering communities and improving lives locally, regionally and globally.
The event included an engaging demonstration of the observatory in action from researchers and students from the School of Science.
Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO, said Western Sydney University was honoured to host the Sydney launch of National Science Week.
“This national celebration of science and technology reflects the University’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and meaningful engagement with partners beyond the University’s gates, and demonstrates our dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders who will help deliver solutions to shape a better future for all,” said Professor Williams.
Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said that National Science Week was a once-a-year chance to bring people together to share knowledge and understanding of the vital importance of science in our everyday lives.
“Each year, an extraordinary range of activities are offered in schools, workplaces, cultural and research institutions, and community groups, reaching thousands of people in regional NSW and our metropolitan centres,” said Mr Chantivong.
NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte officially launched National Science Week in NSW at the Campbelltown Rotary Observatory, noting that it was of particular importance to educate young people on the role science plays in tackling and solving our most pressing problems.
“National Science Week is a chance to instil a sense of wonder in our younger generation, hopefully inspiring them to consider further study and a career in a STEM-related area,” said Professor Durrant-Whyte.
This year, Western Sydney is set to become a hub of activity. Western Sydney Parklands and the Australian Botanic Garden at Mount Annan will each host large-scale free community days with crowds approaching 10,000 people. There will be multiple hands-on science opportunities, shows, and presentations for families.
The school theme for National Science Week in 2024 is "Species Survival – More than just sustainability." The theme highlights the importance of science and innovation in ensuring the survival and thriving of different species in an ever-changing world. Specially produced resources on this theme offer opportunities for teachers to lead a deep dive into issues of particular interest.
To find out more about National Science Week in New South Wales, please visit the webpage(opens in a new window) .
ENDS
12 August 2024
Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas
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