Role of Science Centres for Sustained and Responsible Growth in Developing Countries/Nam S&T Centre

Science Centres are the important institutions which not only enhance scientific literacy and awareness among the citizens but also are of vital significance to the developing nations. Since development requires a well-trained work force, high-quality education must be put in place early in development. In this context, Science Centres along with interactive Science Museums around the globe can contribute by promoting the local institutions engaged in scientific activities and involving those specialists who are able to identify, adapt, and effectively use the S&T achievements to develop their own unique technologies. The Governments also should take an initiative to join hands and form global and regional associations to develop inquiry-based science education programmes that engage the youth in the learning process in a way that promotes their critical thinking and develops their problem-solving skills. The present Publication is a follow up of the International Workshop on Science Centre in Promoting a Knowledge and Innovative Society for Sustained and Responsible Growth in Developing Countries organised at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia during 11-14 October, 2010 by the NAM S&T Centre jointly with the National Science Centre, Kuala Lumpur and Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Malaysia. It includes 21 research papers including country status reports from 24 countries. The book presents significant insights on role of science centres in nurturing a knowledge society for the sustainable development of a country. It is expected to be of great value for the researchers and professionals who are engaged in popularising the Science Centres that prepare the world for the upcoming highly competitive future.