Tunisia Expo Science International (ESI)
August 6, 2009 - (Tunis) Manu Bhalla, the regional Environment, Science, Technology and Health Officer, based in Amman, Jordan, joined 1,000 participants from 42 countries at the 12th Expo Science International in Tunis from July 24-27. ESI is a biennial science event for youth from around the world to share their passion for science. There were 320 booths showcasing youth projects. The 15 person U.S. delegation from Texas (students ranging from 10 – 18 years in age) had a good showing with interesting research projects on water purification technologies, mail order pharmaceutical deterioration, and bio-batteries. Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, KSA, UAE, and Kuwait had sizeable delegations. There was no shortage of enthusiasm and energy from the participants, particularly at the raucous opening “science rave” ceremony. The next ESI will be held in 2011 in Slovakia.
Tunisia has a vibrant youth science community and the Tunisian Youth and Science Association has over 30 science clubs around the country which engage youth during the school year as well as through summer science camps. This is due to the significant Tunisian investments in education after its independence. Some of the ESI highlights:
• Mr. Bhalla participated in an energy presentation alongside the Managing Director for Shell Middle East. Bhalla made a presentation on U.S. Commitment to Clean Energy, which was well received.
• A space programs scientist from the Southwest Research Institute (sub-contractor to NASA) presented the evolution of space programs as well as future programs such as a manned expedition to mars, the solar orbiter as well as commercial space flights. The MENA region has had two astronauts (Saudi Arabia and Syria).