The Shanghai Natural History Museum, a branch of the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum, launched its "Science for Seniors Week" on Oct 8. This initiative, running until Oct 13, aims to enhance scientific literacy among the elderly population.

Guided by the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality, the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, and the Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism, the event is a collaborative effort with 15 institutions, including Shanghai University for the Elderly, under the theme "Boundless Knowledge, Radiant Golden Years".

The opening ceremony saw the unveiling of the Shanghai Initiative for Promoting Elderly Well-being through Science Education. This joint effort, backed by 22 organizations including the Shanghai Astronomy Museum, the Shanghai branch of the Bank of China, and Fudan University, calls for greater societal attention to elderly science education. The initiative emphasizes the importance of tailoring scientific education to the specific needs and interests of older adults, advocating for diverse teaching methods, accessible resources, and engaging content to effectively improve their scientific literacy.

Throughout the week, the museum will host a variety of activities designed to engage seniors with science, including lectures, a science fair, interactive installations, and special initiatives like "Youth Action", "Silver Age Action", "Corporate Action", and "Museum Action".

The museum also introduced a new interdisciplinary course, "Nature's Kaleidoscope", at the Shanghai University for the Elderly, which blends natural sciences with practical applications.  Through these efforts, the Shanghai Natural History Museum aims to establish a model for national elderly care and education, fostering a vibrant community dedicated to lifelong learning and scientific exploration.

Source: Shanghai Observer