The ReFocuS FLOW project (Road to Friday of Science FLOWs) aimed to raise citizens’ awareness of the importance of research and innovation (R&I) by bringing scientists closer to the public. In line with EU and UNESCO guidelines, all project activities addressed key societal challenges, including climate change, a sustainable future, and the objectives of the EU Green Deal and EU missions. Citizens were encouraged to take initiative and actively participate in achieving these goals.
The project centered on two main activities: European Researchers’ Night (ERN) and Researchers in Schools (RSA). The 2024 theme, “The FLOW of Knowledge,” focused on identifying societal and planetary challenges, introducing citizens to EU missions, and emphasizing that only joint action by scientists, citizens, industry, and local authorities can successfully achieve EU mission goals. The 2025 theme, “The FLOW of People,” showcased concrete solutions and the progress of ongoing EU missions, highlighting Europe’s commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future.
Activities took place in the capital, larger cities, smaller towns, and rural areas of Serbia, with special focus on students, families, and communities with limited access to R&I. Using engaging public formats, citizens interacted with scientific work, learning that R&I is for everyone and contributes to climate-neutral cities, clean water, and healthy food for present and future generations.
The expected impact of the project was to increase visibility of research and innovation in Serbia, raise citizens’ awareness of their role in EU goals, and inspire collective action toward a sustainable and prosperous society.
