By Jovana Cvorovic

Following the resounding success of last year's inaugural event, the Center for Desert Agriculture (CDA) and The KAUST School (TKS) hosted the second edition of the Plant Science Family Night on March 6, 2024. This eagerly awaited event drew families from across the KAUST community, uniting them in an evening of discovery, exploration, and learning.

With over 25 interactive stations, the Plant Science Family Night offered an array of activities designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding of plant biology and sustainability. From the secrets of composting to the intricacies of genetics, attendees had the opportunity to engage with diverse topics, including recycling, irrigation, food safety, sustainability practices, and many more.

The opportunity for children and their families to interact with KAUST researchers and educators, engage in experiments, demonstrations, and discussions, and gain insights into their groundbreaking work and its implications for addressing global challenges such as food security and environmental sustainability showcased the power of hands-on learning. Among the demonstrators were representatives from various organisations, including the Center for Desert Agriculture (CDA), The KAUST School (TKS), Terraxy, GrowBioM, Students for Sustainability - KAUST, Food Safety and Quality Assurance, KAUST Sustainability, Water Desalination and Reuse Center (WDRC), Facility Management/Utilities – Wastewater Treatment and Distribution Systems, Garden Society, Polymeron, and C-tree.

The Plant Science Family Night served as a platform for fostering connections between the KAUST community and local organizations dedicated to promoting science education and environmental stewardship. It exemplified the CDA's dedication to nurturing the next generation of scientists, innovators, and environmental leaders, inspiring curiosity and fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world.