Science lantern illuminates the minds

American University of Cairo

Under the slogan "Science Lantern Illuminates the Minds," begins on Thursday, August 4 a campaign that aims to enhance the science literacy of the Egyptian society and excite interest about science and technology among youth and children during the month of Ramadan.

The campaign is organized by the Science and Society initiative and the science outreach program of the American University in Cairo. The campaign activities include dialogues with leading Egyptian scientists, interactive shows, science videos, and competitions. They will cover natural sciences and their applications, engineering and information technology, medical and health sciences, and a glimpse at the science and technology of the future.

"What this campaign is really about is to offer a rich cultural activity to the youth and families during Ramadan and to consolidate in their minds that science and knowledge can allow them to lead a better life on the individual and societal levels," says  Alaa Ibrahim, the campaign manager.

The campaign is planned and organized by a group of university students from various universities in metropolitan Cairo. "The advent of Ramadan during the summer holiday is an opportunity that ought to be invested in activities that benefit the community at large," says student lead organizer Ahmed Abdel-Ati. The Science Lantern events are held at 9 pm every Thursday during Ramadan at the Hill House in the AUC Tahrir campus. Participants continue to interact and connect through the Science Lantern Facebook page that attached hundreds of spectators within hours of launch. The events are open for the general public and are free of charge.

At the end of the program, participants will be offered a "Science Literacy" certificate after passing a test on the topics covered. "Science literate and appreciative citizens make a better society and a better country. This kind of informal education has broad impact including cultivating critical thinking, problem-solving and decision making skills, which are all essential for supporting the emerging democracy in Egypt", concludes Ibrahim.