Creating a Better World Through Science: Studying in Canada
Each year on November 10, the world celebrates World Science Day for Peace and Development, a United Nations observance that highlights the vital role science plays in advancing peace, building sustainable societies, and improving lives across the globe.
For international students, especially those pursuing degrees in Canada, this day is a reminder that science is more than formulas and research papers—it is a powerful tool for solving global challenges, bridging cultural divides, and promoting equity, sustainability, and international cooperation.
🔬 How Are Science, Peace, and Development Connected?
Science promotes peace by:
Enhancing global cooperation across borders (e.g., climate change research, public health responses)
Creating shared platforms for innovation and problem-solving
Informing evidence-based policy that reduces conflict and promotes justice
Science supports development by:
Addressing poverty, hunger, and health crises
Creating technologies that improve education, agriculture, and communication
Advancing sustainability through clean energy, climate action, and environmental protection
When science is inclusive, ethical, and shared across nations, it becomes a foundation for peaceful progress and prosperity.
🧪 How Canadian Universities Promote Science for Peace & Development
Canada is home to some of the world’s most inclusive and forward-thinking science faculties. Here are some notable programs at Canadian universities that connect science education to peace, development, and global cooperation:
🌍 University of Manitoba – Winnipeg, MN
University of Manitoba Faculty of Science drives global impact by:
· Advancing clean water and sanitation (UN SDG 6) as Canada’s UNAI Hub in water research and governance
· Leading climate action, health equity, and justice-related research tied several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)
· Receiving major grants for sustainable agriculture and plant resilience innovation (e.g. C‑SPIRIT, net‑zero farming)
· Supporting industry-relevant innovation and inclusion via the Science Innovation Hub and commitment to equity, diversity, and reconciliation
🌱 University of Victoria – Victoria, BC
The University of Victoria empowers students to tackle global issues through science by:
Leading in climate action and marine research (e.g., Ocean Networks Canada, Solid Carbon Project)
Integrating Indigenous knowledge with advanced technology
Supporting inclusive innovation through INSPIRE: STEM for Social Impact
Offering globally focused programs tied to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
🧬 University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) – Prince George, BC
UNBC’s Faculty of Science fosters global change through:
Environmental & Sustainability Science, producing community‑focused research on climate, resource management, and environmental justice
Global & International Studies, training students in governance, equity, and peace‑building across cultures and environments
Field schools & international research programs, where students engage in real‑world solutions abroad and in northern communities
🔭 University of Waterloo – Waterloo, ON
Science for Peace and Climate Action
Offers degrees like Science and Business, Environmental Science, and Geography & Environmental Management
Partnered with the Interdisciplinary Centre on Climate Change (IC3) and Water Institute
Encourages students to contribute to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through applied research and co-ops
🌐 University of Alberta – Edmonton, AB
Faculty of Science + Sustainability Council
Offers certificates in Sustainability that combine science with Indigenous knowledge, climate action, and global development
Programs in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, Environmental Geoscience, and Biological Sciences support peace through conservation, disaster preparedness, and responsible land use
Active in Arctic research, Indigenous partnerships, and international science education
🔎 What This Means for International Students
Studying science in Canada allows international students to:
Contribute to solving global challenges through meaningful research
Engage in co-ops and internships that apply science for social good
Learn in diverse, multicultural classrooms where collaboration reflects the real-world need for peace and understanding
Participate in student-led projects and clubs focused on sustainability, health, clean energy, and social equity
🌟 Final Thoughts for World Science Day
Science is one of humanity’s greatest tools for building a just and peaceful world. As an international student in Canada, you’re not just gaining a degree—you’re preparing to lead change, whether it’s by designing sustainable technologies, protecting the environment, or improving health systems in your home country. Interested in studying Science at one of these universities? Contact Go 2 Canada Education Services today.
This World Science Day, remember: your scientific knowledge is a force for peace, progress, and global connection.
Photo by ROMAN ODINTSOV: