Tehran - On 30 November, the Deputy of Water and Soil, Ministry of Agriculture of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in close collaboration with FAO, organized a hybrid high-level ceremony to commemorate World Soil Day 2024.
 
The event brought together over 600 participants, including Iranian high-ranking officials such as the Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Gholamreza Nouri-Ghezeljeh, and the Minister of Education, Mr. Alireza Kazemi. International envoys, representatives of UN agencies, and soil experts were also in attendance.
 
A key highlight of the event was the active engagement of youth. School children and young athletes participated, with awards presented to the winners of a poster contest. The program also featured a music performance by school children, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
 
Most of the technical speakers and soil experts cited FAO during their presentations, underscoring FAO’s critical role in providing knowledge and resources on soil.  
 
A video statement by Mr. Lifeng Li, Director of FAO’s Land and Water Division (NSL), was showcased during the event. Mr. Li emphasized the significance of this year’s theme, “Caring for Soil: Measure, Monitor, Manage,” highlighting the vital role of accurate soil information in informed decision-making.
 
The event also featured small booths displaying soil-related products for children, including colorful natural clay for mud play and play-doh made from colorful soil. Introduces children to the concept of soil as a natural resource, fostering an appreciation for the environment. Made natural and non-toxic ingredients, soil play-doh is safe and environmentally friendly.
 
In a special segment, the Minister of Agriculture inaugurated a book titled “Soil Decomposition,” and awards were presented to individuals and organizations who made notable contributions to celebrating and advocating World Soil Day 2023.
World Soil Day is annually marked nationwide by a two-week-long series of activities, including social media campaigns, school quizzes, and competitions, showcasing the commitment to raising awareness about soil and its critical role in sustainable development.