Young Europeans compete in science Olympiad
Young scientists from across Europe have gathered in the German city of Potsdam to take part in the fifth European Union Science Olympiad (EUSO). This year 16 countries have sent teams to the event, which aims to encourage gifted young science students to take up a scientific career. During the week-long event, the 90 participants, who are all aged between 15 and 17, will be set both theoretical and laboratory based tasks. The teams comprise experts in biology, chemistry and physics, and the challenges set by the organisers will require the students to work together to find solutions which cross traditional disciplinary boundaries. However, the week is not all about work; the programme includes sightseeing trips to Berlin and Potsdam and visits to German schools. 'More than ever, we need excellently educated people in Europe, especially in the natural sciences,' commented Thomas Rachel, Parliamentary Secretary of State at the German Federal Ministry for Education and Research. 'Competitions like the European Science Olympiad bring young talents together, encourage them and awaken their passion for scientific questions. They are an important contribution to economic development and the prosperity of Europe.'
Countries
Germany