Iran’s IIDCYA activities goes global
The Institute for Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults (IIDCYA) has made a mark on the world stage with its activities during World Space Week, which were registered on the official website of the event.
According to ISNA, the Director-General of Education and Research at IIDCYA, Saiedeh Azizian, announced that this year was the first time the institute participated in World Space Week, alongside the Iranian Space Agency, with a focus on the theme “Space and Climate Change”.
Azizian stated that one of the main activities was the national festival of space-themed music videos, which was held in collaboration with the Iranian Space Agency. The festival aimed to educate participants on space-related topics and encourage them to produce scientific content. The event included workshops, judging, and selection of winners.
Another program was a specialized seminar on “Climate Change and Dust” held in collaboration with the Iranian Space Agency and the Atmospheric Science and Meteorological Research Center (ASMERC). Over 500 participants, including teachers and young members of IIDCYA, attended the seminar via online platforms.
Azizian also mentioned that an international citizen science project, “Observing Messier Objects”, was held in 20 provinces across Iran, in collaboration with NASA’s NASE program and the Saqeb Astronomy Association in Gilan. Over 1,000 participants took part in nighttime observations, resulting in over 400 submissions of artwork, photography, and writings.
Furthermore, scientific programs were held in 21 provinces, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, with over 10,000 members of IIDCYA and students attending 193 centers during World Space Week.
Azizian also mentioned that special programs were held at IIDCYA centers, combining the theme of World Space Week with the institute’s 60th anniversary activities. These programs included stargazing nights, astronomy workshops in rural areas, book readings, book introductions, crafts, and creative performances related to space.
During World Space Week, IIDCYA centers hosted over 10,000 children and young adults interested in space-related activities across the country.