Advancing Sustainable Development Goals through Enhanced Literacy in Nuclear Science and Technology: Emphasizing Hands-On Experiences

Abstract In alignment with the United Nations’ sustainable development goals ( SDG s), nuclear science and technology ( NST ) significantly contributes to nine out of seventeen SDG s. As an integral component of nuclear human resource development ( HRD ), it is imperative to introduce young students to NST through effective STEAM or STEM methodologies. However, Thailand’s progress in NST literacy and public awareness has been suboptimal, despite over five decades of nuclear HRD initiatives. While various nuclear-related organizations have undertaken numerous activities, their lack of coordination and comprehensiveness poses challenges for sustainable development. To address this, concerted efforts must involve collaboration with schoolteachers to integrate NST into the national science curriculum and syllabus. This entails a review and revision process aimed at incorporating more hands-on experiments to ignite students’ curiosity and enthusiasm for NST . Through strategic planning and implementation, Thai students will develop a deeper familiarity with NST , thereby enhancing their overall NST literacy and contributing to the nation’s sustainable development goals.