NAAS, 19 September 2002: According to the Naas Youth Information Centre, the month of October starts with a bit of a blast – three important events mark the first weekend: the beginning of World Space Week, World Teachers’ Day and National Children’s Day.
Declared in 1999 by the UN General Assembly , World Space Week marks the anniversary of two great milestones of humanity's expansion into space: 4 October 1957 -- Date of the launch into outer space of the first human-made Earth satellite, SPUTNIK I, thus opening the way for space exploration and 10 October 1967 -- Date of the entry into force of the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies.
World Teachers' Day is celebrated every year on October 5 in over 100 countries since its proclamation by UNESCO in 1994. The 2002 slogan "Teachers Create Dialogue Every Day", highlights the key role of teachers, both in the classroom and in the community at large, as promoters of dialogue, understanding, mutual respect and solidarity, i.e. the basic values of our democratic societies.
National Children's Day is a celebration of Ireland's one million plus children. Its aim is to put a spotlight on children for one day. The emphasis is on having fun and celebrating childhood, a really important time in your life, but at the same time having consideration for those less fortunate than yourself. Further information about these events can be found on the following web sites: www.spaceweek.org; www.ei-ie.org; www.ncd.ie or call into the Naas YIC, Canal Stores, Basin Street, Naas, email yicnaas@iol.ie or ring 045 897893
