The World Day of Science and Technology is commemorated every April 10th, a date that highlights the transformative power of human knowledge. This anniversary, established in honor of the birth of Dr. Bernardo Houssay, the first Latin American to win the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1947, invites reflection on how science and technology shape our world.
From Miami, Amnesty International emphasizes that the World Day of Science and Technology should promote the ethical use of these advances to build better societies. However, it warns about the risk of perverting technology to the detriment of humanity, especially in violations of human rights. Science describes the universe through theories and processes, while technology adapts those findings to practical needs.
The Legacy of Bernardo Houssay on the World Day of Science and Technology
Bernardo Houssay, Argentine physiologist, revolutionized the understanding of diabetes with studies on the pituitary gland and blood glucose control. His Nobel recognized contributions that save lives today. This date not only celebrates his genius but also remembers the need for sustained investment in research.
Global Investment in Science and Technology: UNESCO Data
UNESCO highlights that in 2015, nations signed commitments to allocate more GDP to scientific research in pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals. Between 2014 and 2018, global spending grew by 9.2%, although four out of five countries invest less than 1% of their GDP. These data, from the UNESCO 2021 report, expose gaps that the World Day of Science and Technology seeks to close.
Ethical Alerts and Current Challenges
Amnesty emphasizes the double face of technology: beneficial or harmful to human rights. In parallel, UNESCO promotes international collaboration, similar to its World Day of Science for Peace on November 10th, which fosters trust in scientific advances in the face of climate and digital crises. Experts urge greater scientific literacy so that society can participate in ethical debates.
- Global R&D spending grew 9.2% (2014-2018).
- Less than 1% GDP in 80% of countries.
- Focus on SDGs and sustainable development.
In the Dominican Republic, the World Day of Science and Technology inspires young people to pursue STEM careers, strengthening local innovation. Organizations like UNESCO call for equity in access to knowledge.
The World Day of Science and Technology endures as a call to ethical vigilance and shared progress, honoring legacies like Houssay’s while facing modern dilemmas in science and technology.
