Project description
Bridging Cyprus’ research gap, one event at a time
In Cyprus, there’s a growing gap between citizens and research, hindering both societal progress and scientific advancement. Many young people, especially, remain disengaged from Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) fields, lacking awareness of their potential and relevance. This disconnection stifles innovation and hampers the country’s ability to effectively tackle pressing challenges. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) programme, the MISSION POSSIBLE project aims to ignite interest in STEAM careers and enhance scientific literacy. Through events like European Researchers’ Night and year-round activities, it seeks to demystify research and innovation, while promoting their societal benefits. With the backing of the Research and Innovation Foundation and a dynamic awareness campaign, MISSION POSSIBLE strives to make science accessible and relevant to all.
Objective
"The vision of MISSION POSSIBLE proposal is to connect researchers with citizens and the general public at large, in a quest to increase awareness on research and innovation (R&I) and their impact on citizens’ daily life and to boost public recognition of science and research education in Cyprus. In line with the Call objectives, MISSION POSSIBLE will seek to bring researchers closer to the younger generation, to engage, inspire and encourage young people, especially those who are less inclined to embark on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) and research careers, whilst supporting educators in developing a scientific approach through direct interaction with researchers.
In the framework of the proposed project, two European Researchers’ Night (ERN) events will be organised in Cyprus on the last Friday of September 2024 and 2025, accompanied by related pre- and post- events and activities (such as Open Lab Days/Science Roadshows, Panel Discussions and Training Workshops) close to the dates of the ERN events, and complemented by the ""Researchers at Schools"" activities taking place all year round.
The main theme of the proposed project activities (“MISSION POSSIBLE"") is inspired by the EU Missions aiming to mobilise collective efforts to tackle common challenges by 2030 and bring about lasting impact. The target audience is the public at large, attracting people regardless of their age, gender or scientific background, with a special focus on families, pupils and students.
Having coordinated the organisation of ERN events in Cyprus since 2006, the Research and Innovation Foundation will seek to build on its accumulated experience and established collaboration with stakeholders of the local R&I ecosystem to ensure success of project activities, supported by a vibrant and diverse awareness campaign to communicate key project messages, as well as by robust impact assessment activities."
Keywords
Programme(s)
- HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Main Programme
Topic(s)
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-CSA - HORIZON Coordination and Support ActionsCoordinator
1075 Nicosia
Cyprus