[AstroNet] ANNOUNCEMENT: International Year of Astronomy 2009 - Call for Proposals

[Gareth Allison - Webfactory]

ANNOUNCEMENT:
INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF ASTRONOMY - 2009

In December 2007, the United Nations declared 2009 as the International Year of Astronomy (IYA2009). The vision of the IYA2009, in line with the global IYA vision, is to help the citizens of southern Africa rediscover their place in the Universe through the day- and night-time sky, and thereby engage in a personal sense of wonder, discovery and an appreciation of astronomy. The primary focus of IYA2009 is to market the impact that astronomy has made on our understanding of the solar system and the universe, and to use this dynamic science to attract and retain students in the natural sciences. The theme for IYA2009 is "The Universe: Yours to Discover". 

IYA2009 has identified the following as its primary goals and objectives:

. Increase scientific awareness;
. Promote widespread access to new knowledge and observing experiences;
. Empower astronomical communities in developing countries;
. Support and improve formal and informal science education;
. Provide a modern image of science and scientists;
. Facilitate new networks and strengthen existing ones;
. Improve the gender-balanced representation of scientists at all levels and promote greater involvement by underrepresented minorities in scientific and engineering careers; and
. Facilitate the preservation and protection of the world's cultural and natural heritage of dark skies in places such as urban oases, national parks and astronomical sites.


CALL FOR PROPOSALS: IYA2009

The Department of Science and Technology has earmarked funds to support projects and activities to be implemented through various SET stakeholders around South Africa. These implementations need to assist in the realisation of the vision of IYA2009 through the promotion of astronomy amongst the following target groups, with a focus on building and supporting human resources:

A. Educational Institutions (schools, universities): in order to impact strongly on the current education system through:

A.1 Educational resource development and distribution
A.2 Educator development
A.3 Learner development
A.4 Promotion of astronomy related careers

B. Public: in order to keep people informed and create a broad awareness of the day- and night-time sky through:

B.1 Public resource development and distribution
B.2 Astronomy communication capacity building and implementation
B.3 Public programmes and events
B.4 Astronomy and media


DEADLINE

The deadline for submitting proposals is close of business, Friday 13 February 2009. Submissions received after this date will not be considered. Applications are encouraged to submit their proposals earlier where possible.


DOWNLOADS

To download this announcement as well as the application form and terms of reference/project brief,
kindly visit the SAASTA website: http://www.saasta.ac.za


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