LACISE at the Baltic's Largest Physics Festival: Inspiring the Next Generation in STEM
On April 12, the Baltic region's largest physics festival took place in Riga, offering children, young people, and adults the chance to explore the exciting world of physics and future STEM careers through activities organized by Latvian and Estonian science centers, universities, and other institutions.
The Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL) and its Energy Materials Laboratory also participated in the festival, representing the “LACISE” project at the event and demonstrating energy harvesting and storage technologies. At the ISSP UL knowledge station, attendees learned about concepts such as the Seebeck effect, creating voltage from body heat, and painting with the help of centrifugal force.
Researchers from ISSP UL also participated in a ‘meet-and-greet’ event, allowing attendees to have one-on-one, interview-style discussions. Successful interviews could potentially lead to internship offers.
The event also marked the final stage of the school erudition and physics competition FIZMIX, where the team from Riga Secondary School No. 40 won the thirtieth edition of the competition.
The goals of the FIZMIX erudition contest and the "Elektrum" Physics Festival are to promote interest in the exact sciences among youth, demonstrate how to apply theoretical knowledge practically, and encourage young people to pursue careers in these fields.
This year's festival theme was "Mission: The Future." The event lasted all day and provided visitors of all ages with opportunities to participate in creative workshops and experiments that challenged both their intellectual and physical abilities.
Every year, young people and families appreciate the chance to spend meaningful time together, learn something new, and get inspired to study STEM subjects. The festival attracts around 4,000 attendees annually.
More information in Latvian.