23-27 August, 2018

Nha Trang University

Nha Trang, Vietnam

Sitting atop a ridge along the picturesque Nha Trang Bay, VNSC Observatory charms all participants with the ravishing attractions and hospitality of Nha Trang and this time around, it marks the long standing partnership between VNSC (Vietnam National Space Centre) and NARIT (National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand) by co-hosting ITCA Colloquium 2018 “NARIT-VNSC Astronomy and Astrophysics Workshop”.

The 5-day ITCA (International Training Centre in Astronomy under the auspices of UNESCO) Colloquium is held outside its host country of Thailand for the first time, introducing a wide range of topics of Astronomy and Astrophysics ranging from Cosmology, Instrumentation in Astrophysics to Galaxies, Sky Simulation and even night observations to 50 participants from 9 different countries. This year, the colloquium focuses on strengthening the community of astronomy in the region, empowering science teachers and faculty members in high school and university levels. Invited speakers and lecturers from host countries – Vietnam and Thailand pour in their knowledge and experience with dedications, making it one of the most exuberant workshops ever held by ITCA.

Prof. Boonrucksar Soonthornthum, NARIT Executive Advisor (former NARIT Executive Director) remarks in his opening speech that it is the role of ITCA to ensure that SDGs are well responded with the use of astronomy education. He also salutes women in science especially the troop of female invited speakers and lecturers from NARIT who have contributed a great deal to the community. Furthermore, Mr. Vu Viet Phuong, VNSC Vice Director also reiterates that astronomy is the tool for sustainable development and has made clear that concrete collaborative efforts between NARIT and VNSC shall empower and strengthen the workforce in astronomy between the two countries and across the region.

ITCA 2018 once again welcomes the presence of Madame Chargé d’ affaires, Ms. Wanthanee Viputwongsakul from the Royal Thai Embassy in Hanoi as an honourable guest. Her first appearance was back in 2016 at VNSC Headquarters in Hanoi where she witnessed the signing of MoU between NARIT and VNSC. In her speech, she urges that Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics or STEM Education is a catalyst that shall beckon an influx of STEM Workforce to societies. Astronomy plays an impetus to pave the way for children to pursue their careers not only in the field of astronomy but also in other related sciences from engineering to biology or even space technology, adding more manpower into STEM workforce in the future.

ITCA Colloquium shall return to Chiang Mai where it was originated next year in 2019 to commemorate 10-year anniversary of NARIT which coincides with the centennial celebration of IAU and 50 years of Moon Landing.

Please stay tuned for more news and activities on ITCA Colloquium and other ITCA activities at facebook/ITCAUNESCO and www.narit.or.th/en