Organized by the Institute of Applied Research (i2A) of the Polytechnic University of Coimbra, in collaboration with the Municipality of Cantanhede, the event sought to connect scientific knowledge with various audiences. ESEC was represented by lecturers Ana Santiago, Catarina Cruz, Dulce Vaz, and Susana Silveira.
The team led the activity “S(T)EMentes em Ação”, designed for children in the 1st and 2nd Cycles of Basic Education. Through interactive experiments, young participants were challenged to act as researchers, formulating hypotheses and seeking answers to their questions, using an approach that integrated Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) principles.
The aim of this activity was to foster scientific literacy, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The initiative, inspired by the European Researchers' Night, intends to provide direct and participatory engagement with science, stimulating curiosity and strengthening the link between academia and society.
ESEC's participation also served to showcase the institution's work beyond the academic sphere, enhancing its connection with the wider community.
