Astronomy for a Better World: 15 Years of Impact, Collaboration, and Sustainable Development
The OAD@15 Symposium marks fifteen years of the International Astronomical Union’s Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD). Established in 2011 through a partnership between the IAU and South Africa’s National Research Foundation, with support from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, the OAD advances the use of astronomy, its practitioners, skills and infrastructure as tools for sustainable development.
Over fifteen years, the OAD has supported more than 250 projects in over 100 countries, developed a global network of Regional and Language Focus Offices, and connected communities working across astronomy, education, technology and development.
WHY ATTEND
• Reflect on the OAD’s milestones, achievements and lessons learned.
• Discover the impact of projects and regional activity.
• Exchange practical experience across astronomy, development and related disciplines.
• Contribute ideas that can help shape the future of astronomy for development.
• Connect with project leaders, regional representatives, researchers, students and development professionals.
FORMAT
A three-day hybrid symposium combining presentations, panels, project and regional showcases, participant reflections, interactive strategic discussions, networking and collaboration sessions.
WHO SHOULD PARTICIPATE
Astronomy and development practitioners; Regional Office and Language Expertise Centre representatives; project leaders and volunteers; educators; researchers; students; community-engagement professionals; industry participants; and people working across related disciplines.
WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT
Practical lessons and good practice; new professional connections; opportunities to exchange ideas; examples of successful initiatives; and a chance to contribute recommendations for the next phase of astronomy for development.
Participation is by registration. The hybrid format allows both in-person and online participation.