UNESCO General Conference, at its 43rd session in Samarkand (Uzbekistan), adopted a resolution proclaiming the International Day of Engagement in Science for Sustainable Development. The initiative was proposed by Stanislav Dovgyi, the President of the Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (Category 2 Centre under the auspices of UNESCO) and the Member of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine.

On 14 April 2025, during a meeting of the UNESCO Executive Board, Stanislav Dovgyi proposed to proclaim 27 November of each year as the International Day of Engagement in Science for Sustainable Development. The date holds special significance for Ukraine — it marks both the birthday of a distinguished Ukrainian scientist Borys Paton and the founding of the Ukraine’s Academy of Sciences. The UNESCO Executive Board supported the initiative by an overwhelming majority. In addition to the members of the Executive Board, the proposal was endorsed by Albania, Armenia, Bolivia, Bulgaria, the Dominican Republic, the Republic of the Congo, Costa Rica, Côte d’Ivoire, Croatia, Egypt, Estonia, Georgia, Greece, India, Cameroon, Latvia, Liberia, Lebanon, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mauritania, Morocco, Nigeria, the Netherlands, Germany, the United Arab Emirates, the Cook Islands, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, South Africa, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Tunisia, Turkey, Spain, Sudan, France, Uzbekistan, Uruguay, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Yemen, Japan, and many other countries.

“This is a historic decision: Ukraine has now become the initiator and driving force of an international day under the auspices of UNESCO. For me, this is the culmination of six years of persistent work, uniting the efforts of many like-minded people. I sincerely thank the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, the National Commission of Ukraine for UNESCO, the Permanent Mission of Ukraine to UNESCO, the UNESCO Secretariat, the UNESCO Natural Sciences Sector, the Falling Walls Foundation, and all delegations of the Member States that supported the proclamation of this International Day. This is not only a recognition of the importance of science — but also Ukraine's day on the world stage — proof that our nation can initiate global change in the name of science and development,” said Stanislav Dovgyi, the President of the Junior Academy of Sciences of Ukraine.

Representatives of Ukraine expressed deep gratitude for the adoption of the resolution, emphasising that this Day symbolises faith in science as a bridge for dialogue, peace, and resilience — especially in the face of contemporary global challenges. The initiative aims to strengthen global engagement in science to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to promote international cooperation in education, research, and science diplomacy.

During the discussion, representatives from many countries voiced their strong support for the Ukrainian initiative. The delegation of Colombia noted that this International Day would advance citizen science and help build public trust in science by engaging communities, universities, and innovation centres. They also shared plans to establish a National Science Observatory.

Zimbabwe’s representatives highlighted that research and innovation are key drivers in overcoming poverty and strengthening country’s resilience, forming an essential part of the national sustainable development strategy. They stated that this International Day would inspire future generations and encourage the use of scientific knowledge in shaping public policy. Science, as an integral part of national policy, raises scientific literacy, fosters partnerships with civil society and local communities, and integrates indigenous knowledge. Zimbabwe views this Day as an opportunity to advance citizen science and fully supports the Ukrainian initiative.

The delegation of Poland also gratefully acknowledged the proclamation of the International Day of Engagement in Science for Sustainable Development. They emphasised that in times of paradoxes, crises of trust, and fragmentation of knowledge, this initiative would promote the value of science and highlight its essential role in addressing global challenges.

The delegation of Mozambique also confirmed its intention to actively involve universities and scientific communities in marking the new International Day, particularly through student and research communities. The representatives thanked UNESCO for its ongoing efforts to democratise science in the service of humanity and the planet.

The proclamation of the International Day of Engagement in Science for Sustainable Development represents a significant contribution of Ukraine in building a new, human- and planet-oriented culture of science. This Day will serve as an annual global reminder of the power of scientific cooperation — and for Ukraine, it stands as a symbol of its intellectual mission in the world and proof that even in times of hardship, the country continues to open new horizons.