IAU-OAD

#Astronomy for positive developmental change. The Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) is a joint project between @IAU_org & @NRF_News

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

OAD’s new Astronomy-for-Development Ecosystem has been launched!! From astrotourism to free training & seed funding, it aims to empower changemakers worldwide. 🔗 Check it out: https://t.co/OIKH1CSEVx Follow for updates! #ScienceForSociety #Astro4Dev #OAD

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

Astronomy for a Better World

Join Dr Charles Takalana & Dr Joyful Mdhluli (OAD) on 14 Sept, 16:00–17:00 SAST, as they introduce two new initiatives:

Astronomy-for-Development Research & InstituteOAD Innovation Hub

🔗 Register: https://t.co/n3wRYuDHxf

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

A new peer-reviewed study by OAD and collaborators found that participants in astronomy retreats reported lower depression, anxiety and stress immediately afterwards, along with greater calm, perspective and connection.

Read more: https://t.co/LnFeKSGhJ5

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

and challenges likely to shape science and innovation in the years ahead.

Dr. Takalana was selected from amongst more than 3000 applications from researchers and experts worldwide.

https://t.co/R09AE9JJyy

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

[1/2] Dr. Charles Takalana, PhD from the IAU OAD has been selected as one of the UNESCO experts to contribute to the eighth edition of the UNESCO Science Report.

The report will examine recent transformations in national and global STI systems while exploring the opportunities

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

[2/2]During this time, the project made an impact on 40,000 girls and hundreds of teachers across 31 rural schools in Kenya and Uganda, reducing drop out rates and increasing interest and grades in STEM.

https://t.co/jlSRZkmokg

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

[1/2]Congratulations to Elimisha Msichana Elimisha Jamii na Astronomia (EMEJA), an IAU OAD funded project in Kenya and Uganda, that has now received backing from the @SKAO

The IAU OAD, through our global call for proposals, funded the project for 4 years between 2021-2025.

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

Join our first Astronomy for Mental Health Facilitator Training!

📆 14 Aug | ⏰ 12:00 UTC | 📍 Zoom

More info & register: https://t.co/dV7Kv7vLwB

Not a clinical intervention or professional mental health qualification.

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

Our Starry Safaris project in Tanzania has launched their astrotourism tours, using astronomy tourism to create additional income opportunities for economically-disadvantaged individuals.

If you visit Arusha, be sure to stop by the Mount Meru Astronomical Observatory!

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

Congratulations to the five projects selected through the DARA–OAD Astronomy for Development partnership!

We look forward to seeing their impact across Africa through astronomy, education, and community development.

@dara_project
🔗 https://t.co/ox4SrxWVKv
#Astro4Dev

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

🎉 New record! The IAU OAD Call for Proposals 2026 has closed with 250 applications—the highest ever, surpassing the previous record of 230 in 2013.

Thank you for your passion to change the world. Proposal reviews begin now, with Stage 1 results expected in early August.

[Kevin Govender @govender]

Join us in celebrating and reflecting on lessons from 15 years of @astro4dev as we map out the future of this bold initiative by the @IAU_org, @NRF_News, @SAAO, and @dstigovza;

15-17 February 2027, fully hybrid. Save the date and watch this space... https://t.co/KyTohLw4ld

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

SOHO, funded by the IAU OAD, is using astronomy to support mental well-being in Uganda’s refugee camps through night-sky observations, creative learning, and peer-led workshops, the project helps youth build resilience, hope, and belonging.

Read more: https://t.co/JRyUeaQbYY

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

Curious about astronomy? Turn your passion for the Universe into real-world impact

The IAU OAD is funding innovative projects using astronomy for sustainable development—from education to tourism and social change.

Open to anyone

Deadline: 31 May 2026
https://t.co/O1RX14ja21

[SAAO Science Engagement @SAAOOutreach]

We met with Brazilian astronomy group to talk about societal benefits. The gathering was organised by @BRICSAstronomy for @SAAO @AfricaAstronomy & the @Astro4Dev to find collaborative opportunities.

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

How can astrotourism support sustainable development, cultural heritage, education, and local communities?

Join us for a discussion on this topic: https://t.co/0qlphjyegX

[AfricaAstronomy @AfricaAstronomy]

As part of the AfAS Africa Day celebrations, we are pleased to launch a continent-wide initiative titled:
"Voices of African Astronomy"
This campaign aims to highlight the people, stories, & aspirations that shape astronomy across Africa today.
#AfricaAstronomy #AfASAfricaDay

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

Our 2026 project teams, The Black Girls in Physics and Astronomy (BGPA) project, which aims to foster early science identity and STEAM engagement among black girls, has run a number of activities for youth leaders and young girls.

Read more: https://t.co/ayifymNHz8

[NRF-SARAO @SKA_Africa]

We are hiring!

The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) is looking for a Programme Coordinator: Schools to join our team in Carnarvon, Northern Cape.

If you are passionate about education and community engagement in the STEM sector, we want to hear from you.

📅 Closing Date: 02 June 2026
📍 Location: Carnarvon, Northern Cape
🔗 Apply here: https://t.co/vKT5wivVTs

#SARAO #STEMCareers #EducationJobs #NorthernCape #Hiring #SouthAfricaJobs #AstronomyCareers

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

📢 Webinar: IAU OAD Call for Proposals
🗓 08 May | 🕛 12:00 UTC

Join our webinar to learn about the Call for Proposals, proposal writing, budgeting, impact measurement, and designing strong #Astro4Dev projects.

🔗 Register: https://t.co/lmoaOIlr8C

#Astro4Dev #IAUOAD

[IAU-OAD @Astro4Dev]

Curious about astronomy? Turn your passion for the Universe into real-world impact

The IAU OAD is funding innovative projects using astronomy for sustainable development—from education to tourism and social change.

Open to anyone

Deadline: 31 May 2026
https://t.co/lRdsC2TYs6