Shaw-IAU Workshops by the OAE

Astronomy and space science remain largely absent from Pakistan’s national curricula, limiting public engagement with these vital STEM fields. To address this, the Space Education Research Lab (SERL) of the National Center of GIS and Space Applications at the Institute of Space Technology (IST), Islamabad, was established to promote scientific curiosity and enhance astronomy literacy. SERL’s inclusive outreach model aligns with HEC Vision 2025, IAU’s Astronomy for Development framework, and UN SDGs 4 and 5. Through bilingual resources, astronomy camps, teacher training, internships, school visits, summer camps, and public stargazing, SERL promotes nationwide awareness. This talk presents SERL’s achievements and model as a scalable approach for astronomy education in developing countries.

Biography:

Yawar Abbas is a Research Associate at the Space Education Research Lab (SERL), NCGSA, Institute of Space Technology (IST), Islamabad. He holds a BS in Space Science with a major in Astronomy from IST. He serves as the National Astronomy Education Coordinator (NAEC) for the IAU in Pakistan and leads astronomy education and outreach initiatives through SERL. He is also the Observatory In-Charge at the IST Astronomical Observatory, where he promotes hands-on learning and public engagement in astronomy.