From 10 to 14 February, 76 ambassadors from CERN, the University of Geneva (UNIGE), the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL) and the Annecy Particle Physics Laboratory (LAPP) visited schools in the region to inspire young people and show them that science is accessible to everyone. Some 215 presentations were given to approximately 4730 pupils aged from 5 to 16.

The aim of this programme, which is organised as part of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, held on 11 February this year, is to combat gender stereotypes in scientific and technical careers. Since its inception in 2017, the initiative has given more than 30 000 pupils the opportunity to meet female researchers, engineers, technicians and other professionals working in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and maths) and learn more about their careers and their work.

The volunteers shared their passion for science through interactive presentations adapted to each age group, experiments, demonstrations and enriching discussions. The teachers emphasised the positive impact of these interactions, which make it easier for pupils, especially girls, to picture themselves pursuing scientific careers.

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What pupils had to say:

"If my boyfriend enters a black hole, can I still phone him?”

"Is the speed of light faster than a cheetah?"

And their teachers:

"Our speaker explained to the children that she was dyslexic and that there might be mistakes in her slides. This shows pupils who have learning difficulties that they needn’t be an obstacle to a career in science!”

“In one class, the pupil who was struggling the most has found her vocation. Her attitude to lessons has changed now that she’s understood the value of studying. You’ve helped her find her calling.”

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Would you like to volunteer to share your passion for science with the next generation? Contact us to find out about our upcoming calls for volunteers: education.locale@cern.ch.