In a world increasingly shaped by science and technology, Scientific and Technological Literacy (STL) is a universal requirement if people are not be alienated in some degree from the society in which they live. It is vital to improve scientific and technological literacy.
We need, through educational means of all kinds, formal and non-formal, to bring about a much more thorough infusion of scientific and technological culture into society. Only in this way shall we succeed in creating the continuum, the virtuous circle encompassing the establishment of a broad educational base in science and technology, enhanced capacity to cope with change and to pursue development goals, scientifically informed decision making, and finally - completing the circle - expanding investment in human development.
Federico Mayor